Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I move amendment No.2:

In page 12, subsection (1)(b), line 9, after “the” to insert “educational welfare,”.

Section 8(10)(b) states the functions of the agency shall be to support and promote the development, welfare and protection of children. This amendment proposes to include educational welfare as a function too. The Minister may argue the use of the term “welfare” already covers this. However, I believe there is a need to be more specific. The right to education is already enshrined in the Constitution. This legalisation, accordingly, should reflect the importance of education and welfare. This is the area where there is the greatest potential to note child welfare issues which could be addressed quickly. The education system plays an important role in the protection and welfare of a child. It merits particular attention in section 8. I commend the amendment in both my own name and that of Deputy Troy to the Minister.