Statement of clarification by the Ombudsman for Children

The Ombudsman for Children wishes to clarify comments made publicly about a letter sent to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform on May 24th 2006.

Contrary to public comments and reports the Ombudsman for Children did not argue against a change in the law. The Ombudsman for Children stated in the letter that urgent action was needed and invited the Minister to refer any proposed legislation to her Office.

The Office has a statutory mandate under Section 7(4) of the Ombudsman for Children Act 2002 to give advice to the Minister of the Government concerned on any matter (including the probable effect on children of the implementation of any proposals for legislation) relating to the rights and welfare of children.

The Ombudsman for Children, today once again offered to the Government to make herself and her team available to the Government over the coming weekend to ‘child proof’ the new legislation.

• 1 Meitheamh 2006
• Cineál: Preaseisiúint