Anne Rabbitte (Galway East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I agree with Deputy Sherlock that the form of words is important. We need a form of words that copper-fastens the position for a child with disabilities who may be non-verbal. We also need to into consideration that such a child needs to be party to proceedings and I have not heard that come through. We are talking in the round here about people who are able to articulate but we must also talk about the voice of a child with disabilities. That is a role I seek for the guardian ad litemand I do not see it shining through in the way the legislation is being presented at the moment. Deputy Sherlock is right that the form of words used should nearly remove the discretion allowed to judges in appointing guardians ad litemin order that we protect children. That is what I am looking for.