Special Rapporteur on Child Protection

Department of Children, Disability and Equality

Dublin

Job Summary

The Special Rapporteur on Child Protection is a Government appointed position. The Rapporteur reviews and reports to Government on specific national and international legal and legislative developments in the area of child protection at the request of the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality. 

Main Duties of the job

The Special Rapporteur is required to prepare one Annual Report for each year of the two-year term, examining the impact on child protection, if any, of relevant national and international developments in legislation, litigation and case law during the previous year.

Additionally, at the request of the Minister or on the proposal of the Special Rapporteur, and agreed between the Minister and Special Rapporteur, the Special Rapporteur may be asked to prepare at least one thematic report over the course of the two-year term. 

The ideal candidate will have:

• A post graduate degree, at minimum level 9 on the National Framework of Qualifications or equivalent, in law, or in a discipline directly related to child and family law.
• Specialised knowledge and experience of national and international developments in the welfare and protection of children. 
• A recognised background and experience in the field of child and family law.
• Knowledge of laws and practices related to child and family law both nationally and internationally.
• Have published academic or other materials (articles, studies, reports, research papers or any similar written material) in the field of child and family law

Information about the Organisation

The Department of Children, Disability and Equality’s mission is to enhance the lives of everyone in Ireland from childhood onwards by upholding rights, promoting equality of opportunity, recognising diversity and delivering supportive legislation, policies and services

Selection Process Details

Further information on this significant opportunity including a full list of essential and desirable requirements and details on how to apply, is available on www.publicjobs.ie 

The closing date for receipt of completed applications is 3pm on Thursday 12th February 2026.

If you feel you would benefit from a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Michelle Noone at michelle.noone@publicjobs.ie

We are committed to a policy of equal opportunity and encourage applications under all nine grounds of the Employment Equality Act.

For more information and to apply, click here.