Mr. Terry Dignan:

I concur with what has been said, particularly about the qualifications of guardians ad litem. They should be broadened to include a wide range of potential qualifications.

On the role of the advocate, we are simply saying that in these proceedings we have one opportunity to hear the true voice of the child. We have referred to the fact that this is a very alien and intimidating environment for children where their voice may not come through the guardian ad litem. It is our duty to the child to make sure we hear absolutely what his or her view and opinion is. In those cases where it may be difficult to do this, the advocate can play a supporting role in ensuring the child's views and feelings are heard and made known.

It might be interesting to introduce the voice of the child to the proceedings of the committee. I would like my colleague, Ms Charles, to give the views of one child who was sent out of the State through court proceedings. The child did very well, but these were their views on being involved in the case.