Minister for Children Frances Fitzgerald was wise to avoid the use of hyperbole when she unveiled a national policy to improve the lives of children and young people up to the age of 24 years. The policy was designed, she explained, to move on from a legacy of failure and to plan for a better future through co-ordinated Government action. The extent of that failure and the wilful ignorance or cowardice of those in charge has emphasised the need for administrative reforms and for a change in official behaviour.
The new policy is designed to improve outcomes for children and their families through a co-ordinated delivery of services. Early intervention and support for parents who experience drink and drug problems represent an important aspect. Providing better health and education services for children by co-ordinating the work of existing agencies is a worthy ambition. So is a commitment to reduce inequality. The introduction of a second, free preschool year sounds progressive but it will depend on available funding and trained personnel. Similarly there is no guarantee that a commitment to lift 70,000 children out of constant poverty can be met. As our chief reporter Carl O'Brien observed, there is a long way to go before Ireland becomes "the best small country in the world in which to grow up". Progress is being made, however, through a reconfiguration of services and legislation. But it will take broad Government commitment, adequate funding and strict administrative oversight to realise the potential benefits.
The Child and Family Agency has been established with a €60 million budget and a staff of 4,000. Child protection functions have been taken from an overburdened HSE, while special educational, family support and other services have been amalgamated. Integration and a co-ordination of effort are important. Social prejudice towards vulnerable families should also be addressed. Strict accountability in the system will be a reflection of progress.