Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Katherine Zappone has officially launched the Waterford Therapeutic Facility in Portlaw.

There are a total of 409 children in  full time care in the Waterford/Wexford area, most of whom are in foster care.

The Minister says the service offers a wide range of programmes and parental supports.

The Minister said the Therapeutic Facility in Portlaw is a service that supports children and young people to achieve their full potential and  she says this is a good example of what the agency Tusla is trying to achieve.