Citation
Barnardos. (2011). Stand for Children: The Children's Manifesto. https://knowledge.barnardos.ie/handle/20.500.13085/429
Abstract
Children have been set low on the list of political priorities in Ireland for far too long. Too
often they have been sidelined and voiceless. Those living in communities who are
disenfranchised and marginalised are even further away from the political table. We need
to change our approach to tackling issues of poverty, disadvantage and child protection.
We must look to systems and services that promote prevention and early intervention
that can offset the impact of disadvantage and turn children’s lives around.
Change takes vision, courage and leadership. It won’t be easy; there are many
competing demands on Government. But with the right leadership, significant change is
possible. Children are the inspiration and hope for the future of Ireland. We work with
many children whose courage and hope in the face of considerable challenges would put
most adults to shame. They are worth fighting for; worth changing for. Our children
deserve nothing less than a Government that stands up for them. A Government that
gives them a world to wonder at, one full of hope, possibility and opportunity. Barnardos
believes in the power of one adult to change a child’s life; we see that power at work
every day in our projects across the country. Politicians are powerful adults; election
2011 holds possibility for real and lasting change that can improve countless
children’s. Children don’t vote but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be heard. We
have one request for politicians in Election 2011: stand for children.