The Ombudsman for Children’s Office (OCO) last week hosted a special event at the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA) which brought together around 120 young people from youth groups across Ireland.

Dr Niall Muldoon was joined by guest speakers including disability activist Cara Darmody and former UN youth delegate Mohammed Naeem for the ‘Get it Right’ event, led by members of the OCO youth advisory panel.

The event offered young people the chance to share their views on how children’s rights can be better protected in Ireland and to think creatively about how incorporation of the UNCRC can become a reality.

“This is our first big event as part of our campaign to bring about the full and direct incorporation of the UNCRC into domestic law and it is only right that young people are front and centre,” Dr Muldoon said.

“Incorporation would be a game-changer for children’s rights in Ireland and a real opportunity for the State to demonstrate its commitment to the protection of those rights.

“Ireland first ratified the UNCRC back in 1992 but without full incorporation, it has no real teeth at policy level. This means that the State is not legally obliged to take into account the rights in the UNCRC when drafting legislation or policies, making decisions, or when issuing rulings in court.

“We believe that in the current climate of uncertainty and shifting global attitudes, there is no better time for the State to get it right on children’s rights and write their existing commitment into legislation.

“Our event is a chance for young people to exchange views and learn more about how incorporation would make a difference in their lives.

“When it comes to healthcare, education and access to services for example, having children’s rights embedded in law would force a rethink across the public and civil service from the very start of every process, so children would always have to be considered.

“We are delighted to have inspiring young people like Cara and Mohammed as guest speakers on the day, who shared their own experiences of why the protection of children’s rights really matter.”