In Ireland it is recognized that there are problems with the Guardian ad litem program they have. For many of the same reasons as can be found here in this country.
RTE
Guardians ad Litem are appointed by the courts on a case-by-case basis to provide an independent voice in childcare cases.
Their role is to represent the best interests of the child. As such they have considerable access to children, many of whom are in State care.
Sources close to the process said the Courts Service "reluctantly" agreed to take over the role in the absence of any agreement with other agencies, including the Department of Children, over who should assume responsibility for vetting.
The State spent more than €11m on fees and legal costs for Guardians ad Litem last year.
An estimated 60 Guardians ad Litem currently offer their services to the courts but the system is unregulated and there is currently no mandatory vetting of them.
The Courts Service's move follows concerns over a long period of time that the system of appointing Guardians ad Litem was ad-hoc and unregulated.
Full story: RTE
No comments:
Post a Comment