Senator Phil Prendergast

Tipperary South Senator, Phil Prendergast is a Committee member.

The Committee agreed to this measure following a meeting with the ISPCC and Barnardos. Both agencies expressed the need for the referendum to take place at the earliest possible date.

They also outlined their views on the shortcomings of the current childcare system which they argued is failing many children. Based on what they Committee heard , it has decided to:

Invite the Minister for Children, Barry Andrews TD to a specially convened meeting to consider the issues raised today.

Write to the Taoiseach regarding the status of the proposed children’s referendum.

Form a specific sub-Committee to provide added focus and scrutiny to the childcare system.

Senator Phil Prendergast said;"There was a consensus among the Committee that we need to establish the exact situation regarding the referendum on children’s rights. This issue is of the greatest importance so we are keen to find out where it lies at this point.

In addition, the presentations given to us by both the ISPCC and Barnardos detailed what they believe are the shortcomings in child welfare services. Consequently, the Committee is anxious to get answers on the points raised. Therefore, we have decided to invite the Minster for Children to an unscheduled meeting to respond to this criticism and outline any relevant initiatives in this area.

Also, we agreed in principle, to form a special sub-Committee of the Health Committee with the task of particularly focusing on child welfare. The intention is that this group will add additional impetus and accountability to this sector."