Minister Foley launches public consultation on how the state provides for children and young people in the care system

The Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley, has announced a public consultation on how the state provides for children and young people in the care system.

The State looks after about 6,000 children who cannot live with their birth parents, in various forms of alternative care. Most of these children are in foster care, which is usually

Speech by Taoiseach Micheál Martin Cork Chamber Annual Dinner Friday, 6th February 2026

Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests.

Tá an-áthas orm a bheith libh tráthnóna. Tá ríméad orm go bhfuil mé in ann a bheith páirteach in ócáid atá an-speisialta.

I want to thank President Rob Horgan and Conor Healy, your Chief Executive for the kind invitation to join you tonight.

What makes Cork Chamber so special is that, through over two centuries of being at the centre of Cork life, it has always worked to be much more than a strong voice on business.

It is a vital voice on a full range of economic, social, cultural and environmental issues.

When I talk with your members in every part of the community I am always struck by their