Family Court set-up must be prioritised by Government

The Government must prioritise the setting up of a dedicated Family Court — as promised in the programme for government — to avoid crowded lists, repeat adjournments, and chronic delays, a new report has urged.

The four-year research project, which put Ireland’s childcare courts system under the microscope for the first time, also calls for:

• The development of a uniform template or guidelines on the presentation of evidence, especially DVD interviews, in child care proceedings where child sex abuse is alleged;
• The replication nationwide of the Bessborough Centre model in Cork, where psychotherapy and addiction counselling are offered alongside parenting courses, to help young parents overcome substance abuse;
• More cultural mediators outside Dublin to engage with migrant families;
• Better cultural diversity and legal training for social workers;
• A national strategy for the provision of services to children with mental health and behavioural problems;
• The development of a special child protection strategy for Travellers.