Child Law Project Report Warns Ireland’s Vulnerable Children Are at Risk

Introduction

In Ireland, a recent Child Law Project publication confirms an alarming trend that vulnerable children have been “falling through the cracks” increasingly due to the rather poor policies put in place by the state on child protection. This needs assessment demonstrates the pressing need for concerted efforts in protecting children wherever they are. It also reveals serious gaps in planning and provision, leaving many children unsupported. The article presents the data gathered in this relevant study, demonstrating the need for action from the government.

Background of the Child Law Project Report

Lack of Government Policy and Planning

The report on the Child Law Project outlines the absence of sound government policy and action on child protection policies. The organization, which has been following the judicial childcare cases for over three years now, observes major shortcomings especially the lack of a dedicated government effort. The report cautions that some children who should be protected under the law will continue to be in danger in the absence of a targeted approach.

Heightened Judicial Interest

During each of those hearings, members of the judiciary expressed profound dissatisfaction regarding the effectiveness of the existing framework. Both judges and child protection specialists, who have been involved in the proceedings, recognised issues in providing adequate resources for children, including proper placements. This condition exposes a systemic flaw that is in dire need of correction.

Key Issues Highlighted in the Report

Shortage of Care Placements

A significant issue highlighted in the Child Law Project is the extreme lack of suitable foster and residential care placements. It is observed that several children in the system are deemed high needs, and the absence of relevant care options available only worsens their plight. The Child Law Project report illustrates in detail how such placement shortages bring about a ‘domino effect’ on an already strained care system.

Inadequate Health and Social Support

The report also criticises the lack of adequate health and social services to children in the care system, especially those with mental health, disability and addiction issues. The Health Service Executive (HSE) has also searched itself subject to criticism due to inability to address such issues resulting in children being left without assistance. This void in care in these groups of children especially those with trauma and other mental health needs produces adverse effects that can be long-lasting.

Weak Inter-Agency Cooperation

The report also provides an insight about another constraint which is poor agency coordination on child protection. Often, there exist gaps in the network between such organisational structures which result in delays in assisting children. They should be encouraged to work together as this will minimise wastage of resources and assist in meeting the demands of children.

Illustrative Case Studies

Case Study 1: Behavioural and Mental Health Challenges

One instance includes a young boy with extreme emotional and psychological turmoil, who developed aerosol dependency at aged ten, was diagnosed with bulimia, and exhibited aggressive tendencies. Having entered the foster care system at the age of 14, he was moved around various homes but was still not given the appropriate psychological evaluation. Reinforcing the notion that care facilities for complicated cases are almost non-existent, the young boy was even kept in a children’s holiday home at one point due to lack of suitable care facilities.

Case Study 2: Instability At Home and Risk Factors

In another case, the Child and Family Agency applied for full care orders for four siblings who were members of a family where domestic violence and safety risks had been a concern. There were services provided to the mother but after she got into a relationship with a man who had a history of violence, the conditions of the children deteriorated. Notably, even with several cases of domestic violence, the children were not adequately kept safe by the care system, hence there is a need for such a system to be more proactive and supportive.

Proposed Solutions and Reform Recommendations

Inter-Agency Committee on Vulnerable Children

In an attempt to fill in the gaps, the Department of Children has, of late, formed a committee comprising various ministries which responds to the needs of vulnerable children. The purpose of this committee is to enhance the synergy of the agencies and ease the work of child protection. Nevertheless, the Child Law Project argues that this promise is a welcome development; however it is not a solution to the existing problems.

Call for a Whole-of-Government Strategy

The report encourages the government to seek a whole of government approach in relation to the issues affecting vulnerable children. This will entail devising a strategy for legal and policy changes in relation to among others coming up with a new model of placing children with special needs or who are likely to be abused. If such an approach is embraced by the government, then it will be possible to find solutions to the problems bedevilling the child protection system within the country.

Conclusion

The report of The Child Law Project does not mince words. If there is no intervening strategy put in place as well pursued, the children most at risk in Ireland will survive hand to mouth. A whole government strategy is fundamental to closing the gaps of services for care and support of children, protecting the children and giving them the safe and stable environment they need. As both judicial and social advocates keep pushing for the resolution of the issues, this time it is the government that must respond and do something before more and more children in Ireland are pushed to the peripheries. 

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