The media focus on instances of abuse in residential centres for children was having a negative impact on care workers, the Irish Association of Care Workers (IACW) heard at its Galway conference at the weekend, writes Lorna Siggins.
The work of these professionals required greater understanding, and it should be realised that children were also affected when abuse was debated in the media, Ms Paula Byrne, the president of the association, said.
"Children, particularly in residential centres, may have natural worries and apprehensions when abuse is discussed in the media, particularly in the tabloid press where the tone and presentation of such cases is often grossly sensational and voyeuristic," Ms Byrne said.
"Staff can face particularly difficult situations where public perception and comment fails to allow for the fact that much has been learned and many necessary and fundamental child protection changes have been implemented."
She said there was also a growing concern among social care workers about the future of the Health and Social Care Professionals Bill, 2002.
The legislation involves introducing the professional registration of social care workers, but there are fears that it will lapse because of Government cutbacks.
The IACW has sought the legislation for many years to ensure that only qualified and vetted staff work with young people in community and residential situations.
The pay disparity between care workers at detention centres run by the Department of Education and Science and those working in health board centres was also raised at the conference in Galway.
It heard demands for an end to any such pay anomaly.