Number of child beggars rises 30%
The statistics, released yesterday by the Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (ISPCC), show that during last year and this year, 1,083 children were spotted begging, compared with 756 for 2005/2006.
This is the first recorded increase since 2004.
The figures, compiled by Leanbh, an ISPCC initiative that seeks to protect children at risk on the streets, have been described as “worrying” by Leanbh manager Mary Nicholson.
“We have definitely been challenged this year,” she said.
“It is increasingly acknowledged that the streets are unsafe for children. The likelihood of such children becoming criminalised, engaging in petty crime and ending up in trouble with the law is very high.”
Ms Nicholson said the reason for the increase was twofold.
“First, the accession of Romania to the EU took place on January 1 this year, giving its citizens freedom of movement within the EU. Within Romania are the Roma people, a distinctive ethnic group. A significant number travelled to Ireland. In their culture, it is very acceptable to beg; they have earned money this way for generations.
“Second, there was a change in the legislation in February, which meant it was no longer illegal for adults to beg. Many adults bring children and babies with them when begging, and this has also pushed up the numbers.”
Ms Nicholson said the public must remember that under the 2001 Children Act, child begging represents a serious child protection concern that puts children at risk on every level, whether they are begging alone or with an adult.
Leanbh has launched a public awareness campaign with the key message:Giving Money Is Not The Answer.
Ms Nicholson said giving money increased the chances of regular child begging and did not address the root cause.
According to Leanbh, children who beg represent a clear-cut child protection issue, are often deprived of their constitutional right to education, are exploited and demeaned and at risk of physical, emotional, sexual and psychological damage.
In 2006/2007, 144 children received support from Leanbh, a round-the-clock service.
In addition, 82 children from communities seeking asylum in Ireland received individual therapeutic support as well as mentoring.
Sightings of children begging peaked in the late 1990s, with 2,938 in 1999/2000, but dropped to 785 in 2004/2005.
Leanbh was set up in 1997 to tackle the problem.
Contact the service on 01-6447712 if you are concerned about a particular child.
