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Ombudsman for Children’s Office

What is the Ombudsman for Children’s Office?

We are a human rights institution and work to promote the rights and welfare of all children and young people in Ireland.
We investigate complaints about services provided to children by public organisations.
The service is free and independent. Dr Niall Muldoon is the Ombudsman for Children.

News & Updates

2 July 2026

Opening Statement – Joint Committee on Children and Equality

30 June 2026

Statement on the Full and Direct Incorporation of the UNCRC into Domestic Law

21 May 2026

Cearta Leanaí i mBaol: Leagtar béim i dTuarascáil Bhliantúil OCO 2025 ar an ngá práinneach atá le CNACL a ionchorprú i ndlí na hÉireann

OCO Campaign for Incorporation

The OCO’s Follow Through on 42 campaign for the full and direct incorporation of the UNCRC into Irish law

Make a complaint

If you think a child has been treated unfairly by a public body or an organisation funded by the government you can make a complaint to the OCO.

Meet the Ombudsman

Niall Muldoon is the Ombudsman for Children. His job is to make sure that children in Ireland are being treated fairly. He investigates complaints and promotes children’s rights.

Teacher Resources

Rights workshops

We deliver rights education workshops to schools and youth groups. Our rights workshops help children and young people understand what their rights are and are age-appropriate, interactive and fun.

Classroom resources

Access resources for educators and professionals; lesson plans, posters on children’s rights and our website for young people. Our materials are suitable and can be adapted for children aged 4-17 years.

Learn about children’s rights

Drawing of as dove to illustrate "the right to be protected from war"

Protection from war

drawing of a card ID holder to illustrate "The right to have a name"

A name

Drawing of a flower to illustrate "the right pf Being alive"

Being alive

drawing of a laptop to illustrate "to right to getting information"

Getting information

drawing of a tap to illustrate "the right to clean water"

Clean water

Reports & Submissions

20 July 2026

15 July 2026

15 July 2026