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Doing what’s best for children

13 – 17

years

old

What does this mean?

How is this right protected in Ireland?

Gracie’s story

Does every child in Ireland enjoy this right?

What does this mean?

When adults make decisions about you, they have to think about what’s best for you.

Article 3 of the UNCRC says so.

Every adult in your life and across should do what’s best for you. When they are making decisions that affect children’s day to day life, laws that protect children, or working in a role where they care for children, they should be good at what they do and think about what will make children’s lives better.

How is this right protected in Ireland?

In 2012, the people of Ireland voted to include some children’s rights in our Constitution. Because of this, lots of new laws were written that better protect children’s best interests.

For example, what’s best for children has to be considered now in family and adoption cases, and when Tusla makes decisions about a young person.

Does every child in Ireland enjoy this right?

Not every child in Ireland always has their best interests protected. As you read through the rights, you will come across examples where children’s rights aren’t being protected, which is not in their best interests.

Gracie’s story

“Hey, I’m Gracie and last year, I had to leave my home and move in with a foster family. It’s been really hard to live away from my Mam but I know that it was the right decision for my best interests, for now. It wasn’t very safe where I was living before. I still get to see Mam and she’s now getting support to help her feel better.”

Find out what you can do when you’re not getting your rights.