At a sitting of Dublin District Court in the Bridewell the judge extended an interim care order for three siblings for a further four weeks. Two of the children had special needs. The court heard that the children were doing well in care, but that neither parent was attending or engaging with the proceedings.
There was no appearance by either parent. The court was told that the previous solicitor for the mother was no longer on record. The Child and Family Agency (CFA) sought an extension of the interim care order and provided an update on the children’s circumstances.
The social worker confirmed that she was the team leader and that the contents of her report were true and accurate. She told the court the mother had been evicted.
Child A was doing very well in his foster placement and was seeking to be adopted by his foster carers. The CFA was now seeking a full care order in respect of him. The foster carers were also seeking enhanced rights in relation to his care.
The court heard that Child A’s two siblings were also doing well, although they were not all placed together. Their foster carers had become close friends and ensured the children saw each other regularly on family occasions.
The social worker said one of the boys, Child B, was only three years old. Private occupational therapy had now been fully approved for both boys, and Child C was also doing very well. Hydrotherapy was due to begin for him to assist with his balance.
The judge said he was satisfied on the evidence before the court. He extended the interim care order for a further twenty-eight days. Counsel for the guardian ad litem (GAL) said enhanced payments were being sought for all three children. The social worker said she supported that in principle but would need to follow up with the fostering team. Counsel for the GAL said the issue had already been escalated.
The judge directed the CFA to make every possible effort to serve the mother.