Minister Foley announces new recruitment campaign for Ireland’s first regulated Guardian ad litem National Service
- Foilsithe:
- An t-eolas is déanaí:
The Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley, has announced a new recruitment campaign for Ireland’s first regulated Guardian ad litem National Service.
A Guardian ad Litem is an independent person appointed by a court to advise the courts on the best interests of the child in public court proceedings.
The new Guardian ad litem National Service is being established to ensure that every child’s voice is heard, and their best interests are independently presented to the court in care proceedings across Ireland.
The recruitment campaign for 65 Guardians ad litem is being launched today. This will allow the new Guardian ad litem National Service to establish a team of Guardians ad litem, who will then be available for appointment as directed by the courts.
It is the first time that Guardians ad litem will be regulated and supported on a national basis to deliver a high-quality, child-centred service.
Minister Norma Foley said:
"Approximately 3,500 children currently have a court-appointed Guardian ad litem. The new service will deliver national standards, consistent practice, and timely access to Guardians ad litem wherever a court directs one.
This is an important step for children’s rights in Ireland. By opening recruitment for Guardians ad litem, we are building a national service that will ensure that children are listened to in care proceedings and that their best interests remain at the heart of every decision."
Director of the Guardian ad litem National Service, Pat Bergin, added:
"At present Guardians ad litem are directly appointed by the judiciary in court proceedings. They are providing an excellent service to children and fulfilling a vital role. However, children deserve a consistent standard, with a consistent service available to all children in all parts of the country
Recruitment is a cornerstone of this reform. We are inviting professionals with experience and passion to join a service that is child-focused, legally supported, and guided by clear national standards. This is an opportunity to make a real difference for children and families across Ireland."
The positions will be open to new applicants and those currently serving as Guardians ad litem. The new Guardian ad litem National Service is expected to formally commence mid-next year.
The Government is encouraging existing Guardians ad litem and qualified professionals to apply for the new roles to shape the future of child protection in Ireland.
The successful applicants will be supported by strong legal frameworks, clear standards and a commitment to independence. Applications are now open on publicjobs.ie.
This transition from the current fragmented system to a regulated, national model for Guardians ad litem is underpinned by the passage of the Child Care (Amendment) Act 2022.
ENDS
Notes to Editors:
- The Child Care (Amendment) Act 2022 provides the statutory basis for the Guardian ad litem National Service and enshrines Guardians ad litem independence in law.
- Guardians ad litem will be employed as civil servants within the National Service, as part of the Department of Children Disability and Equality.
- Independence in function is fully protected under law for the first time.
- Guardians ad litem will have access to legal advice and representation, comprehensive policies, and structured supports
- Ongoing engagements with stakeholders have taken place and continue to be part of the Department strategy in the preparation for the establishment of the National Service.
- These stakeholders include: AGALI, Courts Services, Judiciary, Law Society, Children Rights Alliance (CRA), Empowering Children in Care (EPIC), Tusla, Irish Foster Care Association (IFCA), Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration and Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (DPER) and others.