Court told of teenager’s challenging behaviour

A 14-YEAR-OLD with problematic behaviour may be sent to the UK, the District Court sitting in Wexford was informed.

Judge Miriam Walsh dealt with an application from the Child and Family Agency for extension of a care order.

She was told that the teenager was being looked after at a residential centre in County Waterford.

Appearing for the agency, solicitor Caitriona Walsh stated that the boy had been approved by a committee for special care.

However, no suitable placement had yet be identified to provide such care and he might have to go abroad, said Ms Walsh.

Any such arrangement, whether in Ireland or elsewhere, will have to be approved by the High Court.

In the meantime, Wexford Court learned that the 14-year-old had found education very difficult, with behavioural issues first noted in primary school. More recently his behaviour had reached the point where he was out of control.

He dealt at the beginning of the year with a Wexford based psychiatrist who suggested that medication was required.

However, the doctor then went on long term leave and no much medication was ever prescribed.

Child mental health services in Wexford were described to the judge as over-stretched and available only in emergencies.

The application for extension of the interim care order until October was granted.