Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire (Cork South Central, Sinn Fein)
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32. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs her views on her Department's paper, Preparing a Policy Approach to the reform of Guardian Ad Litem Arrangements, with particular reference to the legal representation of guardians ad litem in court proceedings; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33538/16]

Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent)
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It is widely agreed that reform of our current Guardian ad litem provisions is necessary to address significant inadequacies in the existing arrangements. I want to establish an accountable national system for service management and delivery, and to provide assurances regarding the quality and sustainability of services into the future. In particular, I want to provide in legislation for the status and functions of the Guardian ad litem, as well as for the professional qualifications and practical experience required to be eligible to act a Guardian ad litem.

In order to inform key areas of reform, my Department conducted a consultation with stakeholders. Some 26 detailed responses to my Department's paper "Preparing a Policy Approach to the Reform of Guardian Ad Litem Arrangements" have been received. The responses were published on my Department’s website on 28th September 2016.

The overall objectives of my reforms will be to extend the GAL system to benefit the greatest number of children and young people, and to provide a service that is high quality and sustainable into the future.

I have recently brought detailed policy proposals to Government and obtained approval for the drafting of a General Scheme and Heads of Bill. This new Bill will address key areas such as the establishment of a nationally organised, managed and delivered service which is underpinned by clear principles and policies. The circumstances where a Guardian ad litem should be appointed will be set out in the legislation. The role and powers of the Guardian ad litem will be delineated, together with the professional qualifications and practical experience required to be eligible to act as a Guardian ad litem, will be specified.

I also intend to provide for appropriate access to legal advice and legal representation for GALs, while recognising that not every case will require this legal support. The best interests of the child will be the paramount consideration in all of these matters. I am committed to progressing these proposals as quickly as possible, and am aiming to have Heads of Bill ready in draft form by the end of the year.