Waterford set to be test subject for major law reform
The pilot programme seeks to support the key goal of the family justice system - "supporting children." Photo: Joe Evans
Waterford City will be one of two jurisdictions to trial a pilot project that aims to change the way children are heard in the court of law.
Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan said the ‘Children’s Court Advocate Pilot Project’ will shortly be established in Waterford City and Clonmel.
Minister O’Callaghan said the project seeks to support children with “clear, accessible information” about the legal process and empower them to express their views on decisions that affect them.
The programme will apply to all applications made for guardianship, custody and access. A consultation took place with children to help inform the programme’s structure and goals.
The pilot scheme is expected to run for three years. A continuous evaluation will take place to evaluate the scheme’s efficacy in empowering children’s voices in family law cases.
Alongside reforms to child law, Minister O’Callaghan said the Department of Justice would issue Expression of Interests (EOIs) to Waterford Community-Based Organisations to help implement restorative justice measures.
Citizens Information defines restorative justice as: “A process that allows those harmed by a crime and those responsible for that crime to communicate in a safe way, if they wish to do so.”
Restorative Justice is viewed as a cornerstone of a modern rehabilitation-centred justice system.
“Evidence shows that this practice can support victims to recover from the impact of a crime, as well as serving to reduce re-offending,” said Minister O’Callaghan.
The probation service received a 13% increase in funding in 2026, part of which will be used to fund restorative justice practices across the country.
The service recently concluded a round of EOIs from community organisations that are capable of employing restorative justice project workers in Donegal, Sligo, Louth, Cavan and Monaghan.
The service will conduct EOI competitions this year to expand restorative justice services to Waterford and South Tipperary.
