Protecting the rights of children in Ireland

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.

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.

How to complain

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.

More about Niall

Learn about children’s rights

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

Protection from war

A name

Being alive

Getting information

Clean water

View all 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.

Book a workshop

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.

Get resources