As the independent body with statutory responsibility for promoting and monitoring children\u2019s rights and welfare in Ireland, the Ombudsman for Children has the authority to give advice to Government Ministers on matters related to the rights and welfare of children. In advance of Budget 2011, the Ombudsman for Children used this statutory power to contact a number of Government Ministers with portfolios affecting children to raise with them issues of concern, in particular issues that have been raised with her Office by members of the public. While appreciating the extent of the current economic difficulties, the Ombudsman for Children has a role in encouraging public bodies to consider the best interests of children when making decisions that affect children.<\/p>\n
Issues raised with the Minister for Health and Children included access to community based services such as mental health services; waiting lists for services; the Early Childhood Care and Education Scheme; suitable placement for children in care; and difficulties experienced by children in care in accessing social workers.<\/p>\n
Issues raised with the Minister for Social Protection included child benefit; fuel poverty; the back to school allowance; and access to the domiciliary care allowance.<\/p>\n
Issues raised with the Minister for Education included Special Needs supports; class sizes and the quality of school facilities.<\/p>\n
Issues raised with the Minister for Justice included the value of prevention and diversionary measures for young people in conflict with law; and the importance of maintaining the Government\u2019s commitment to ceasing the use of St Patrick\u2019s Institution as a place of detention for children.<\/p>\n