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At the present moment 5,014 children in Ireland are living in emergency accommodation. We know that homelessness has a devastating impact on children's physical, mental, and emotional well-being. As the number of families entering homelessness continues to rise, we want to ensure children are protected. This can be achieved by putting the 'Best Interests of the Child' central to any decisions being made that involve children.
Why is this important?
Children are particularly vulnerable after they have lost their home. We believe that a needs assessment should be undertaken for every child that looks at school accessibility, waiting lists for medical or other therapeutic supports, family composition, supporting relationships with the wider family network, and non-custodial parent access. All of these factors need to be given consideration when decisions are being made that involve children who are without a home.
How will we deliver this petition?
We will present this petition to the Taoiseach, the Tanaiste, the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, the Minister for Children, Equality, and Disability, and the Minister for Education and Youth of Ireland.
Focus Ireland believes that a 'Best Interest of the Child' approach would ensure better outcomes for children experiencing homelessness. This would mean that the 'Best Interest of the Child' be considered in any decision-making at key moments during a family's journey through homelessness.
We are asking that you support the call for the reformation of Government legislation on homelessness to ensure that local authorities and public servants delivering services are obligated to put the rights and 'Best Interests of the Child' first when making decisions that involve children who are without a home.
At the present moment 5,014 children in Ireland are living in emergency accommodation. We know that homelessness has a devastating impact on children's physical, mental, and emotional well-being. As the number of families entering homelessness continues to rise, we want to ensure children are protected. This can be achieved by putting the 'Best Interests of the Child' central to any decisions being made that involve children.
Why is this important?
Children are particularly vulnerable after they have lost their home. We believe that a needs assessment should be undertaken for every child that looks at school accessibility, waiting lists for medical or other therapeutic supports, family composition, supporting relationships with the wider family network, and non-custodial parent access. All of these factors need to be given consideration when decisions are being made that involve children who are without a home.
How will we deliver this petition?
We will present this petition to the Taoiseach, the Tanaiste, the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, the Minister for Children, Equality, and Disability, and the Minister for Education and Youth of Ireland.