Children First on a Statutory Basis

Abstract

Barnardos welcomes the review of Children First and strongly recommends that they be placed on a statutory footing to ensure the highest level of protection for our children. It would remove the element of discretion, as professionals who are reluctant to report would be able to do so with the support of the law. Already, the Protections for Persons Reporting Child Abuse Act, 1998 provides clear legal protection for anyone reporting child abuse “reasonably and in good faith”.