Brian Cowen
Question:49 Mr. Cowen asked the Minister for Health the reason there has been no progress on the appointment of an ombudsman for children; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8123/97]
Written Answers. - Children's Ombudsman.
Mary Flaherty
Question:51 Miss Flaherty asked the Minister for Health when arrangements will be put in place for the appointment of an ombudsman for children and the establishment of an adequately staffed and funded office; and if it is planned that the office should be statutorily based in the short to medium term. [6367/97]
Limerick East): I propose to take Questions Nos. 49 and 51 together.
My colleague Deputy Currie, the Minister of State with special responsibility for child care, is currently developing detailed proposals on the establishment of an ombudsman for children to ensure the responsiveness of services to the needs of children and to promote the rights of children. The role and function of the ombudsman needs to be explored in greater detail with other Departments, the voluntary sector, and all those dealing with children. When they are completed, it is intended that the proposals will be referred to the Cabinet committee on children.