A pilot scheme introduced to allow children, whose parents are going through divorce, custody or access court hearings have their own independent advocates, is a long overdue but positive step. That’s according to Aontú Cllr for Navan, Emer Tóibín who says,
“This is very welcome news. At present, there is huge inconsistency in how judges hear or consider a child’s voice in family legal proceedings. This variance leaves too much to chance and must be replaced with a clear, consistent standard across the board.
For too long, children have been left voiceless in cases that profoundly shape their lives. Any upheaval or change is seismic in a child’s life. By providing an independent advocate, we are taking a vital step towards ensuring that children are treated with fairness, dignity, and respect. Their views must be properly heard and represented, not overlooked or sidelined.
“This reform is long overdue — but it is a positive and important move,”
“Children deserve to have their voices heard in the most serious decisions that affect them. Aontú will continue to stand up for children, working to ensure their rights and best interests are always at the very heart of decision-making in our justice system.”
