In 2013, the previous Health Minister established an independent inquiry into child sexual exploitation which was chaired by Kathleen Marshall. The Health Minister made a statement in the Assembly on Tuesday
Kieran McCarthy MLA said: “I was deeply concerned by the allegations of child sexual exploitation that were revealed last year. This is an extremely serious issue and it was important that an independent inquiry was quickly established.
“This report has made 17 recommendations for several Departments, some of which are already being progressed. It is important that all of these recommendations are fully implemented to ensure that all Departments and Agencies are doing all that is possible to protect our children and young people.
“The Marshall report highlighted the dangers and risks to young people posed by new forms of technology. Keeping children safe online or when they use mobile phones will play an important role in stopping the sexual exploitation of our young people.
“The report did not make any recommendations regarding information on children who go missing from care but I am pleased that the Health Minister has asked the Health and Social Care Board to review how this information is collated and to investigate where improvements could be made.
“This is an opportunity to protect some of the most vulnerable members of our society.”
ENDS