ISPCC asks Govt to enshrine children’s best interests in law
The ISPCC has asked the Government to propose a constitutional amendment which would enshrine a child's best interests in Irish law.
It follows last week's announcement by the Taoiseach that a referendum will be held next year on children's rights.
The children's charity claims that any revised constitution should include a requirement that all actions concerning children should regard their best interest as the prime consideration.
ISPCC spokesperson Aine Lynch says it's not enough for the law to state that children should be protected:
“You can look at the wording of the constitution in two different ways; one would be protective so make sure children are protected within the constitution.
She added: “We believe that doesn't go far enough - that children still need to be regarded in a better light in the constitution, that their best interests need to be considered in all things involved, whether it's administrative, legislative or judicial.”
