The Government has published a new strategy to improve understanding of the lives of children and young people, including those in State care.
Minister for Children Frances Fitzgerald published the National Strategy for Research and Data on Children's Lives 2011-2016 today.
She said the document set out a strategic direction for children’s research at national level.
The strategy focuses on four key areas of children’s lives, including the development of a national, strategic approach to information and the improvement of data systems.
It will also focus on supporting “evidence-informed policy”.
Ms Fitzgerald said the document placed a strong focus on making better use of data and other resources. In particular, it emphasises the role of data from the Growing Up in Ireland study and the National Longitudinal Study of Children.
The Minister said the action plan set out 59 actions to be undertaken by 24 statutory and research bodies over the five-year period.
It includes initiatives to harmonise data from various sources to improve analysis and reporting.
The strategy also focuses on the development of information systems on children in State care and in need of protection. Evaluating services, particularly in the area of early-years education, is also a focus of the document.
Speaking at the launch of the strategy in Dublin today, Ms Fitzgerald said: “If we want to do better for Irish children; then we need to understand our children; their lives, their experiences, their expectations.
"I am delighted that this is one area where we, in Ireland, are world-leaders. I am constantly impressed at the range of excellent research already taking place, such as Growing up in Ireland, the National Longitudinal Study of Children."
She said the new document would further improve understanding of the lives of children and young people in Ireland to help develop better policies and improve services.
“In harnessing the co-operation and resources of more than 20 statutory and academic organisations, this strategy provides a unique and comprehensive approach to achieving an holistic and deep understanding of children and their lives.”