Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 September 2013
1256. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she will outline the monitoring/regulatory supervision of court appointed Guardians ad litem; if it is appropriate for such persons to interview minors without any other adult being present; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37780/13]
View answerThe Deputy will be aware that the appointment of a guardian ad litem (GAL) in child care cases is a matter for the Courts. Under section 26 of the Child Care Act 1991, the Court may appoint a guardian ad litem to a child who is the subject of care proceedings, if it is satisfied that it is necessary in the interests of the child and in the interests of justice to do so. They are always appointed where a child is subject to Special Care proceedings.
I believe that there is considerable scope to improve the quality, consistency and cost effectiveness of the current service which has evolved in an ad hoc manner over a number of years. I also believe that a much more regularised structure for guardian ad litem services needs to be developed if the role of the GAL is to deliver real value. Officials within my Department are working closely with the Department of Justice and Equality and the HSE with a view to establishing the most appropriate arrangements for the future organisation and delivery of this service.
