Terence Flanagan (Dublin North East, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

420. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if he will meet with a person (details supplied) who has previously been in contact with his Department. [29942/15]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I understand from the Deputy's question that the person concerned may wish to engage in relation to the Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children (2011).

The Children First Bill, 2014, which will put elements of the Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children (2011) on a statutory footing was published in April last year and is currently progressing through the Oireachtas. The introduction of this legislation is in line with a key programme for Government commitment and it represents an important and necessary addition to the child welfare and protection system.

In parallel with the legislative process, my officials are currently revising and updating the existing Children First National Guidance. This is to ensure that the Guidance, which will continue as the basis for all citizens to report concerns, reflects the new legislative obligations and provides, in one place, a comprehensive reference resource for individuals and organisations. This will provide clarity and ensure consistency between the proposed legislation and the existing non-statutory obligations which will continue to operate administratively for all sectors of society.

If the person concerned wishes to have an input into the revision of the Guidance, they can make a written submission to my Department which will then be considered by the Department in the revision.