Recruitment for national GAL service starts
The Government has launched a recruitment campaign for the country’s first regulated guardian ad litem (GAL) service, which is due to formally begin work in the middle of next year.
A GAL is an independent person appointed by a court to advise on the best interests of a child in public court proceedings.
The campaign is seeking to recruit 65 GALs, allowing the national service to establish a team of guardians who will then be available for appointment as directed by the courts.
National standards
The Department of Children, Disability and Equality says that this is the first time that GALs will be regulated and supported on a national basis to deliver a high-quality, child-centred service.
Around 3,500 children currently have a court-appointed GAL.
Minister Norma Foley said that the new service would deliver national standards, consistent practice, and timely access to GALs wherever a court directed one.
Director of the new GAL service Pat Bergin said that GALs were currently providing an excellent service to children and fulfilling a vital role.
“However, children deserve a consistent standard, with a consistent service available to all children in all parts of the country,” he added.
‘Professionals with passion’
“We are inviting professionals with experience and passion to join a service that is child-focused, legally supported, and guided by clear national standards,” Bergin stated.
The positions will be open to new applicants and those currently serving as GALs.
Applications are now open on .
GALs will be employed as civil servants within the new national service, as part of the Department of Children Disability and Equality.
The Child Care (Amendment) Act 2022 provides the statutory basis for the GAL service and enshrines GALs’ independence in law.