Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 21 January 2026
241. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the position regarding safeguards that are being put in place to ensure there are conflict resolution mechanisms between TUSLA and the National Guardian ad Litem Service in situations where there is dispute between services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4697/26]
View answerThe Executive Office, Guardian ad litem National Service was set up in January 2025 with the appointment of a Director to establish the National Service and to prepare for the commencement of the Child Care (Amendment) Act 2022.
The operating model for the Guardian ad litem National Service includes governance structures, professional codes, and statutory safeguards to ensure Guardians ad litem can fulfil their functions as set out in the Child Care (Amendment) Act 2022. Under the new model, Guardians ad Litem will be appointed from an authorised panel by the Minister, following a court order arising from child care proceedings. This approach reinforces their independence from Tusla and other agencies.
While both bodies operate within the remit of the Department of Children, their functions, statutory roles, and operational mandates are independent.
