Grace, a non-verbal woman with severe disabilities, endured two decades of neglect in a home that was never assessed for suitable care. Despite repeated allegations of abuse and mismanagement, officials failed to intervene. An eight-year inquiry revealed serious shortcomings in her care, prompting Childrenâs Minister Norma Foley to express her horror at the situation and highlight the need for stronger safeguards for vulnerable individuals. Foley announced a commitment to improving child-safety standards in care but questioned why mandatory reporting was not already established to protect those most at risk.
The eight-year inquiry into the case has made findings of neglect in her care, dental neglect, financial "mismanagement or abuse" and an absence of oversight from officials.
Children's Minister Norma Foley described the report as "harrowing" and said she was "deeply saddened and appalled by the State's failings in her care".
Confidence in the care of those most at risk and those who most depend on the State for their protection was shattered when Grace's story was revealed.
Ms Foley noted we now have foster-care standards as well as the Ombudsman for Children's Office, pointing to new measures that should strengthen child-safety standards.
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