Guardian ad litem National Service

The Guardian ad litem National Service is being established under the Department of Children, Disability & Equality to ensure that every child’s voice is heard and their best interests are independently presented to the court in care proceedings across Ireland.

This new national service will deliver a consistent, high-quality, child-centred approach, grounded in children’s rights and supported by clear standards, professional oversight, and accountability. The Guardian ad litem National Service will work in partnership with stakeholders to uphold children’s rights under Ireland’s Constitution (Ar­ticle 42A) and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, ensuring that children’s views and their best interest are the heart of judicial decision making.

*Open competition for Legal Services

The Guardian ad litem National Service has published an open competition for the provision of legal services to support authorised Guardians ad litem appointed under the Child Care Acts 1991–2022 and the Mental Health Act 2001. This will be a multi‑supplier Framework Agreement that will include the provision of legal advice to Guardians ad litem; representation in District Court child care proceedings; representation in High Court Special Care proceedings; and representation in Mental Health Act (section 25) applications. This competition is being run through etenders. The closing date is 8 May.

Watch this video to learn more about the Guardian ad litem National Service