Learning disability charity Inclusion Ireland had called for new standards and inspection regimes for disabled children who are in care. CEO Deirdre Carroll said:

“Nearly 400 children with a intellectual disability are in full-time residential places where there is no inspection and no national standards. In addition, more than 500 other children attend residential places on a part-time or occasional basis”.

The demands follow a report by the Child Abuse Commission, which found a need to ensure proper standards of care for all disabled children.

“The bottom line is that the Irish taxpayer is paying millions for disability services that are not inspected,” she added.