Government recognises work necessary to meet UN commitments on child rights

Children's Minister James Reilly
Children’s Minister James Reilly

Children’s Minister James Reilly has told a UN committee that the Government “fully recognise that we must continue to work hard in order to fully realise the standards and objectives” of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Mr Reilly introduced the 17-strong Irish delegation to this morning’s meeting of the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child, which was convened to hear evidence of Ireland’s progress in complying with its international commitments.

Mr Reilly said: “As one of Ireland’s first Cabinet Ministers for Children and Youth Affairs, I’m very glad to have the opportunity to represent the Irish government in discussing with the Committee Ireland’s observance of the Convention on the Rights of the Child. It is a process to which the Irish government attaches a great degree of importance.

“It has been ten years since Ireland’s last appearance before this Committee – a period of very significant change for our country. In terms of the change in our economic fortunes, that has been extremely difficult for our people.

“However, despite the significant challenges that has brought, important progress has been made as regards children’s rights.”

Mr Reilly cited the introduction of the Children First Act 2015, which removes the much-criticised defence of reasonable chastisement for corporal punishment; the Child Care (Amendment) Act 2015, which entitles young people leaving care to an aftercare plan; and the International Protection Act 2015, which reforms asylum procedures.

Mr Reilly explained: “While it is clear that in the past Ireland did not always listen properly to children’s voices, nor put their best interests first, this is being remedied.”

He added: “Principally, our efforts now include, continuing structural reform and investment to improve the quality and responsiveness of services to respect children’s rights; and continuing to build and implement legislation and policies that recognise the rights of children and young people and allow for their vindication.”

Share icon
Share this article: