‘Wardship system could contravene human rights’

THE State could be exposed to major liability over the wardship system operated by the Courts which removes the decision-making process of people with mental disabilities, the President of the Law Reform Commission, Mrs Justice Catherine McGuinness warned yesterday.

Ms McGuinness, who is a member of the Supreme Court, expressed concern that the lack of a review system for vulnerable people designated as a Ward of Court could run contrary to the European Convention on Human Rights.

Under the present system, Wards of Court lose many personal rights including those to marry, travel without permission and make financial decisions.