Latest Update

The Guardian ad litem National Service is due to commence in June. In the run up to commencement regular updates will be available here.

18 May 2026

Commencement

On 13 May 2026, the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley, signed the commencement order for the Act, confirming 23 June 2026 as its commencement date. From this point, the Guardian ad litem National Service will become fully operational.

The commencement of the 2022 Act represents a critical milestone in reform. It addresses the long-identified need to establish a consistent governance framework for Guardians ad litem appointed under the Child Care Act 1991. This will enhance consistency, transparency, and accountability in childcare decision-making, ultimately improving outcomes for children.

Over the past 12 months, the Executive Office have benefited from strong and constructive engagement with our stakeholders. The insight, collaboration, and openness demonstrated throughout this process have been invaluable, directly supporting the progress made in designing and delivering a high-quality service. We sincerely appreciate this partnership and look forward to continuing and strengthening this engagement as we move into the next phase of our work.

Recruitment

24 Guardians ad litem have been assigned to Guardian ad litem National Service and are in the contracting stage. Interviews took place on the week of 11 May for solicitors. There are two senior solicitors in the clearance stage. Legal executive interviews are planned for June.

Child Participation

Five consultation sessions involving 9 young people from 18 to 20 years, located in Dublin, Cavan, Galway, Athlone have taken place over recent weeks. This work will inform operation of the service and will particularly influence the development of child friendly information on role of the Guardian ad litem and on complaints procedure.

Work is underway to finalise a Action plan on child participation in decision-making for the Guardian ad litem National Service. The Action plan on child participation in decision-making is being developed with the support of Anne O'Donnell independent child rights consultant and with input from Tusla, EPIC, Foróige, Hub na nÓg and the Department of Children, Disability and Equality's Participation Unit.

Transitional Guardian ad litem applications and vetting

Work continues within the Corporate Services Unit to arrange for the transition of Guardians ad litem for re-appointment from 23 June 2026. This is to ensure that all children involved in such cases have stability and consistency in their current arrangements. The majority of letter confirming transition have been issued at this stage. A webinar took place on 15 May for transitional Guardians ad litem.

Operations

The design and rollout of case management system supports is advancing to ensure proper maintenance of case materials from commencement day onwards. These will host some 3,000 cases from day one and play a primary role in enabling the new Guardian ad litem National Service to conduct its work.

Consultations on operational procedures

Guardian ad litem National Service Stakeholder consultations took place from May 11 to May 13 to discuss the proposed Appointment Procedure, National Service Training , Supervision Policy and Practice Audit Procedures. The Guardian ad litem National Service appreciates the insights, experience and expertise of the consultation participants.

Tender for legal services

There has been a very good response to the tender for legal services from all parts of the country. Applications are being reviewed and outcome of this process will be issued shortly.

Memo for Government

The Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley has secured approval from cabinet for technical amendments to clarify certain provisions relating to the forthcoming new Guardian ad litem National Service. The proposed amendments will not make any change to how the Guardian ad litem National Service is intended to operate but will provide additional legal clarity about the procedures for the appointment of a Guardian ad litem and the circumstances in which legal representation is offered to the Guardian ad litem.

Materials for Children, Parents and Foster Carers

We are in the process of developing information for children, parents and foster carers. This information is being developed in consultation with our stakeholders. The information for children is being informed by our work directly with young people. Ensuring that accessible information is available on Guardians ad litem and on the new National Service is a priority in the run up to commencement.