The House of Representatives will debate on Wednesday, March 5, about the investigation into the foster care of an abused girl in Vlaardingen. You can follow the debate live from 10:15 AM via the livestream and the Debat Direct app.
Four government officials will attend the debate. State Secretary for Legal Protection Teun Struycken, State Secretary for Youth, Prevention and Sport Vincent Karremans, State Secretary for Long-term and Social Care Vicky Maeijer, and State Secretary for Fundamental Education and Emancipation Mariëlle Paul.
Background
In late May 2024, a then 10-year-old girl from Vlaardingen was admitted to the hospital with severe injuries. Her foster parents were arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and serious abuse. It is now clear that this girl will have to deal with the consequences of the abuse for the rest of her life and will need intensive care. The girl had been placed out of the home in a foster family. She herself had asked for help several times, to which no action was taken.
Various Investigations
In addition to the criminal investigation into the foster parents, the Health and Youth Care Inspectorate (IGJ), the Justice and Security Inspectorate (Inspectie JenV), and the Education Inspectorate (IvhO) have investigated what happened at the organizations involved in the care of this girl. On January 30, 2025, the inspectorates published two reports.
Hearing
The Committee for Health, Welfare and Sport held a hearing on this subject on Monday, March 3. Various organizations were invited, including the police, Safe Home, and foster care agency Enver. The purpose of the hearing was to obtain information about how the abuse could have happened while the girl was under the care of the Dutch state. The committee members wanted to know what is needed to prevent a recurrence.
Follow Live and Read More
- The debate can be followed live from 10:15 AM via the livestream and the Debat Direct app.
- View the related documents, inspection reports and other documents.
- Watch the External link:hearing from Monday, March 3.