A senior figure within one of Ireland's leading children's charities says it's important the public is made more aware of issues surrounding the neglect of children.
It comes as a Clare father begins a four year jail-term after he pleaded guilty to eight counts relating to the neglect and ill-treatment of six children over a nine-year period.
The man's eldest victim told Dublin Circuit Criminal Court how she was left to care for her six week old sister when she was just ten years old. She also cared for her other siblings and forged her mother’s signature in shops in order to feed them.
The man in this case is the father of the five younger children, while his former partner and mother of all of the children has already received a four year suspended sentence for the same charges.
Alex O'Keeffe, Western Regional Manager with the ISPCC says too often, cases of neglect have been under-reported.
If you've been affected by the issues in this case, or wish to seek expert advice, you can contact the ISPCC Support line in their head office during weekdays on 01 6767960.
Children can also avail of their Childline supports by calling 1800 666666 of by texting TALK to 50101
