The guidelines provide, for the first time, a comprehensive framework for the preparation of Voice of the Child Reports in private family law cases. They are designed to improve the child’s experience of having their voice heard in private family law proceedings, increase confidence and understanding in the process among children, families and practitioners, and promote consistency and high standards of practice nationwide.

The guidelines are grounded in the Lundy Model of participation and emphasise that children should be provided with the opportunity to express their views in a safe, supportive and age-appropriate manner. They also recognise that while every child has the right to be heard, every child equally has the right not to express a view if they do not wish to do so. A consultation process was carried out with children and young people to ensure their voices and feedback were considered and played a pivotal role in shaping the development of the guidelines and templates. The publication of the guidelines forms part of a broader programme of family justice reform. Alongside this work, the Department will shortly establish the Children's Court Advocate Pilot Project in Waterford and Clonmel, which will trial a new way of supporting children to have their voices heard in private family law proceedings. 

ENDS from press release:

Notes to Editors

• The Voice of the Child Working Group was established by the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration in October 2024. It is chaired by the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration and its membership includes nominees from the judiciary, Courts Service, Cuan, Department of Children, Disability and Equality, Clinical Assessors in Family Law Ireland (CAFLI), Family Lawyers Association, Children’s Rights Alliance, Legal Aid Board and their Family Mediation Service and Barnardos.
• The Group was tasked with progressing recommendations arising from the Review of Expert Reports, including the development of a Children's Court Advocate Pilot Project and a standardised Voice of the Child Report Guidelines and Templates.
• The Guidelines support the implementation of Goal One of the Family Justice Strategy: supporting children.
• The Guidelines are informed by Article 42A of the Constitution, the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the Family Courts Act 2024 and the Lundy Model.
• The Children's Court Advocate Pilot Project will soon be established in Waterford and Clonmel and will be accompanied by an independent evaluation.
• Under Budget 2027 for the justice sector, a historic investment has been made in access to justice measures including €14.5 million in funding to commence the implementation of key Civil Legal Aid reforms, including increases to financial eligibility thresholds.