Minister for Children Norma Foley has asked Tusla's National Review Panel to "immediately begin" an examination into the circumstances around how a 10-year-old girl in the care of Tusla was allegedly sexually assaulted.
A 26-year-old man has appeared in court charged in connection with the alleged sexual assault in Dublin in the early hours of yesterday morning.
Gardaí have commenced a criminal investigation.
Speaking to reporters at Government Buildings this afternoon, Minister Foley said she has asked Tusla's National Review Panel - which examines serious incidents involving children in the care of Tusla - to open an investigation.
The Minister said she wants an "interim report" to be provided "as soon as possible", but declined to outline a timeline as a criminal investigation has been launched and "I don't want to hinder that work".
The Minister confirmed she has spoken with Minister for Justice Jim O'Callaghan about the case
Ms Foley said she has confidence in Tusla, and that the "vast majority" of children in its care are safe.
However, she said the allegations indicate what happened is "a very, very worrying case" and that a review will now take place.
Meanwhile, the Dáil has heard that there is shock and public anger at reports of the alleged assault.
Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald said the safety of children must be the first concern for everyone in the Oireachtas.
The Taoiseach said it is the fundamental duty of the State to protect its children and that people's concerns are legitimate.
The matter will now be examined by the National Review Panel and an interim report could be completed within six weeks, he told the Dáil.
The National Review Panel was established in 2010.
A wider review of how children are protected by the State has also not been ruled out by the Government, the Taoiseach said.
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