2974. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality if her Department and bodies under her aegis maintain a register of gifts, hospitality or other benefits received by public servants; the number of entries recorded on each such register since January 2025; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [61576/26]

I can confirm that the Department maintains a register for gifts and hospitality received by staff of the Department. Updated guidance on the acceptance and recording of gifts and hospitality was developed and distributed to staff in July 2026. At present, the register contains one entry.

In relation to each of the aegis bodies under the Department's remit:

Adoption Authority of Ireland: The Adoption Authority of Ireland does not maintain a register of gifts, hospitality or other benefits received.

National Disability Authority: The National Disability Authority does not maintain a register of gifts, hospitality or other benefits received. They have confirmed receipt of one gift since January 2025.

Oberstown, Children Detention Campus: Oberstown have recorded 3 entries on their hospitality register and 17 on their gifts register since Jan 2025.

Office of the Director of Authorised Intervention, Tuam: The Office of the Director of Authorised Intervention, Tuam, does not maintain a register of gifts, hospitality or other benefits received.

Tusla, the Child and Family Agency: Tusla has a policy in place with clear guidelines on Hospitality, Entertainment & Gifts received from/offered by Third Parties. There is currently no central register to track compliance with this section of the policy.

I have requested that the Ombudsman for Children’s Office reply directly to you on this matter.

Additionally, the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission (IHREC) is an independent public body that accounts to the Oireachtas, with a mandate established under the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission Act 2014 (IHREC Act 2014). They will also respond to you directly.