Appointment of Minister Frances Fitzgerald TD to the Department of Justice

Congratulating Minister Frances Fitzgerald TD on her new appointment, Chairperson Norah Gibbons, said:

“Minister Fitzgerald has been a true champion for the rights and welfare of children.  We are grateful for her commitment and hard work in fulfilling the promises made by Government to protect children.  On behalf of the Board, I would like to offer her our best wishes in her new role.

“We are confident that Minister Fitzgerald will be ably succeeded by Deputy Charlie Flanagan.   While spokesperson for children, Deputy Flanagan has demonstrated his commitment to and understanding of child protection and we look forward to working with him.”

Gordon Jeyes, Chief Executive of the Child and Family Agency, said:

“It has been a privilege to work with Minister Fitzgerald during the establishment and first months of the Child and Family Agency.    I would like to thank her personally for her vision and leadership in reforming child protection and welfare in Ireland.

“Minister Fitzgerald should be proud of the considerable progress she has achieved in a short period.  We have just begun on a long journey to improve the welfare of every child and family in the State, and the Minister leaves us in a strong position with new tools in the form of the Children First Guidance, the Children First Bill and the constitutional amendment on the rights of the child.  I look forward to continuing the work started by Minister Fitzgerald with her successor, Minister Flanagan.”

-ENDS –

Media queries:   Sharon Waters 087 6348 737 / sharon.waters@tusla.ie