45 young people have gone missing from the care of the HSE in 2009, according to the Minister for Children.
Barry Andrews told the Dáil these children were unaccompanied minors and children seeking asylum.
The number compares to 32 in 2007 and 22 in 2008.
Minister Andrews said that children going missing in such circumstances is not unique to Ireland.
He said the suspicion is that children may have pre-planned this with 'persons unknown' prior to coming to the country.
Minister Andrews said this may be to reunite with their families or with the intention to relocate to other countries.
He said it is of great concern to the Government, the HSE, and the gardaí.