The Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Dr Katherine Zappone, TD, was before the Joint Oireachtas Committee on January 24 to discuss matters relating to Oberstown, among other things. The Minister said she was “confident that there is evidence that positive change is taking place,” in Oberstown. She said one of the best ways of knowing if things have changed is by hearing from the young people themselves. “I am pleased to say that I have received a letter from young people in Oberstown inviting me to visit to tell me about their accomplishments while in Oberstown,” she said. The Minister also paid tribute to the commitment of staff and the board of management. “I am very aware of and wish to acknowledge the dedication of the staff, management and the Board of Oberstown. I wish to commend them for their work in addressing the challenges which are faced daily.”

Find the Minister full opening statement to the committee here.