Submission on the General Scheme of the Child Care (Amendment) Bill 2023
EPIC make this submission on behalf of the children and young people from ethnic minority backgrounds and unaccompanied minors in care and aftercare with whom we work. Our submission focuses on inclusive and culturally sensitive care, improving accommodation and aftercare service for unaccompanied minors who are ageing out of the care of Tusla while awaiting a decision on their international protection application, and ensuring the active participation of this cohort in decision-making processes related to their care.
This long-awaited review and update to the Child Care Act, 1991 provides an opportunity to ensure that policy and practice relating to the protection and welfare of children in Ireland is robust, child-centred, and in line with Ireland’s human rights obligations.
EPIC acknowledges the progress made by the Oireachtas to date in enhancing the rights of children and young people in care or with care experience. EPIC believes that the General Scheme of the Child Care (Amendment) Bill 2023 offers the Oireachtas a real opportunity to ensure that the lives and wellbeing of children in its care are prioritised, and to ensure that provisions are made for these children to transition to adulthood in a manner where they are supported to thrive and achieve the best possible outcomes.
