Claire Kerrane (Roscommon-Galway, Sinn Fein)
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673. To ask the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality if she is aware of the concerns raised by an organisation (details supplied) and their request to meet to discuss the issues in detail. [57045/25]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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I have received correspondence from the Association of Guardian ad Litem Ireland (AGALI) on the planned reform of Guardian ad Litem National Service. The issues raised by AGALI have been shared with the Director of the Executive Office for the Guardian ad Litem National Service within the Department for his consideration at this time as he works to establish the office in line with legislation.

AGALI is a key stakeholder in the reform programme. I have asked the Director to continue to engage with AGALI and other stakeholders to share views and information on the plans for establishment of the office and progress made. I wish to ensure that a service is established which meets legislative requirements and also best serves the interests of the child.

I understand that the Director issued correspondence to AGALI on 1 October 2025, responding to the issues outlined in previous communications. A reply from the Association is currently awaited, and a further meeting is due to take place in November 2025.

In light of these ongoing engagements, I believe it would be premature to meet with AGALI at this stage. However, I remain open to the possibility of meeting AGALI in the future.