Ms Edel Quinn:

The legal representation issue is about equality of arms for everyone at the table. As Ms Ward stated, this is a complex area, so it is important that everyone be represented on an equal basis.

Deputy Jan O'Sullivan asked what the GAL system would look like in practice. Our recommendation is that a child who requires a GAL should be designated as a party to the proceedings through that GAL. In this way, the child would have a solicitor. If the child is not designated, however, that would not be the case. By being a designated party, the child's voice would be heard and the GAL would have legal representation. In this way, GALs would have equal standing with children who were joined directly and all other parties to the case, including Tusla and parents.