Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 21 January 2026
242. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality her views on whether the proposed staffing levels for the National Guardian ad Litem Service will be sufficient to deal with the level of demand for this support; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4698/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn 2025, this Department, through the Executive Office of the Guardian ad litem National Service, undertook an analysis of the staffing needs of the new service based on the delivery of the service at that time. The analysis considered the number of children appointed a Guardian ad litem in 2024 and the amount of time worked by each Guardian ad litem, based on the fees paid to each Guardian ad litem by TUSLA over a twelve-month period. Based on this analysis, the staffing model for the service was developed and factored into account ongoing demands, geographical requirements and professional time needed on each court appointment. Based on the calculations, the department determined that 65 Guardians ad litem working on a full-time basis was an appropriate team to meet the demands on the National Service at this time. The department will keep the resourcing requirements under review post commencement.
