Parliament discusses embedding UN children rights in Irish law
The Joint Committee on Children and Equality will meet with the Ombudsman for Children to examine incorporating the UNCRC into domestic legislation. This strategic move aims to fully embed international human rights standards covering health, education, and welfare within Ireland's legal framework.
Joint Committee Discusses Embedding UN Children Rights in Irish Law
The Joint Committee on Children and Equality is set to convene tomorrow, Thursday, 2 July, at Leinster House. The session will feature a dialogue with Dr Niall Muldoon, the Ombudsman for Children, regarding Ireland's legislative pathway to fully incorporate the United Nations Convention of the Rights of the Child (UNCRC).
Deputy Keira Keogh, serving as Committee Cathaoirleach, highlighted that while Ireland ratified the UNCRC in 1992, it has not yet been completely integrated into national legislation. She noted that the convention outlines comprehensive rights for individuals under eighteen, encompassing critical areas such as health, housing, social security, education, leisure, child protection, criminal justice, and participation in decision-making.
Recent reports from February 2023 provided concluding observations on Ireland's periodic reports to the UN. Dr Muldoon emphasised that full and direct incorporation remains a key strategic goal for his office. The committee welcomes this opportunity to engage with the Ombudsman to examine the necessity of this legal change and its potential benefits for children and young people.
The Joint Committee comprises fourteen members, including nine from the Dáil and five from the Seanad. Proceedings will take place at 9:30am in Committee Room 2 and can be viewed live on Oireachtas TV or via the Houses of the Oireachtas Smartphone App.