'It breaks my heart': Judge lashes State care at Kildare court
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A JUDGE heavily criticised the State care given to a minor in front of the three social workers the teen was pleading guilty to assaulting, and only three weeks after he last commented scathingly on her situation.
The 17-year-old was appearing behind closed doors in Athy District Court to plead guilty to the assault of the three care workers at an assigned home in Co Kildare on 26 February 2025.
“She assaulted three members of care home staff, and slapped one. The injured parties are happy to make statements,” confirmed Sergeant Dave Hanrahan.
“I do feel sorry for her,” sighed Judge Desmond Zaidan, who has known the girl and her circumstances for a number of years now.
“I don’t think they are successful care plans.
“I’ve been 20 years on the bench and all children are equal.
“What do you want to do? You certainly don’t want to be stealing, because alcohol is not good for you (She was also charged with attempted shoplifting from Aldi in Athy on 2 October). Ms Cowzer (probation officer) is a very good person, and she wants to help you.
“Do you want to be a hairdresser, a judge? Get her an apprenticeship or something,” he said.
“Judge, she has three previous for criminal damage in the care home,” said Sgt Hanrahan.
“I see the same pattern in State care,” said the judge.
“What’s the damage on these occasions?
“Why are you so angry that you slapped a carer and damaged a mobile phone?” he asked.
“I don't know. I just do it,” she replied sullenly.
“There is a bit of history of depression,” said solicitor Brian Larkin helpfully.
“There’s very little counselling in transition – the significant change of their life."
“Surely there is something morally wrong with that?” asked the judge rhetorically.
“You can see why my treatment is guarded, and I take that care plan with a pinch of salt.
“This kid doesn’t know how vulnerable she is, and it breaks my heart."
The judge suggested: “The first person she should talk to is a brother and sister, the logistics are not beyond possibility."
However, at her last appearance on 24 March, he learned she has a large number of siblings, and hasn’t seen any of them since March 2025.
“Somebody has to speak out, and if I don’t, who can? The Irish people deserve to know about this," the judge said.
“If I didn’t take five minutes out of my time, I see young men out of care, just walking around town,” said Mr Larkin.
“And will go from State care to prison care,” predicted the judge, as he adjourned sentencing until 12 May.
