Fathers’ parental rights must be backed by national register, says FG

FINE GAEL has called for a national register of joint guardianship agreements that would give unmarried fathers greater parental rights.

Unmarried fathers can at present become guardians of their children, with the mother’s consent, if both parents complete a statutory declaration in the presence of a peace commissioner, commissioner for oaths or notary public.

However, if the mother doesn’t agree to this, the father must still apply to court to be made a guardian.