New national guidelines and templates have been launched to ensure children’s voices are heard, respected and appropriately represented in private family law proceedings across Ireland.
Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, Mr Jim O’Callaghan, announced the introduction of the “Voice of the Child Report Guidelines and Templates”, marking an important step towards a more child-centred family justice system.
Developed by the Voice of the Child Working Group, established in October 2024 under the Family Justice Strategy, the guidelines provide the first comprehensive national framework for preparing Voice of the Child Reports in private family law cases.
The initiative aims to improve the experience of children involved in family law proceedings, strengthen confidence in the reporting process and establish consistent professional standards nationwide.
A central focus of the guidelines is ensuring children can express their views in a safe, supportive and age-appropriate environment.
Based on the internationally recognised Lundy Model of participation, the framework acknowledges that children have a fundamental right to be heard while equally respecting their right to choose not to express an opinion.
Children and young people were directly consulted during the development process, with their experiences and feedback helping to shape the final guidelines and templates.
The launch also forms part of wider reforms to Ireland’s family justice system.
A new Children’s Court Advocate Pilot Project is due to be established in Waterford and Clonmel, testing an additional approach to supporting children’s participation in private family law proceedings.
The Government has allocated €2.503 million in funding for 2027 to support the pilot initiative.
The new guidelines represent a significant development in promoting children’s rights, improving professional practice and ensuring that decisions affecting children are informed by their experiences, wishes and perspectives.
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