‘Shameful to see how so many of our children have been failed’ - Mayo TD

Mayo TD Keira Keogh (Fine Gael) has described the Ombudsman for Children’s 2024 Annual Report as ‘a roadmap for action,’ calling on the Government to urgently address ongoing systemic failures affecting Ireland’s most vulnerable children.

The report, titled Tomorrow Starts with Us, was launched this week by Dr Niall Muldoon to mark the 20th anniversary of the Ombudsman for Children’s Office (OCO).

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While acknowledging areas of progress, it highlights persistent issues across education, special needs provision, and accommodation — particularly for children in state care and emergency housing.

Deputy Keogh, who chairs the Oireachtas Committee on Children & Equality, responded with a stark warning: “This report is a sobering read. As a TD – and someone whose career prior to politics was centred around children – I find it shameful to see how so many of our children have been failed.”

Education once again topped the list of complaints, comprising 33% of the total 1,772 received by the OCO in 2024. Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, accounted for 19% of complaints. Keogh confirmed she is scheduled to meet with Tusla’s CEO later this week.

The report also details troubling examples of continued seclusion practices in schools, inadequate planning for children with special educational needs, and hazardous living conditions in emergency IPAS accommodation, including unsafe food and exposure to mould.

“These situations are sobering and a sharp reminder of the consequences of failure,” Keogh said. “Although the report also acknowledges progress, we must act with a swift, coordinated response.”

Keogh echoed the Ombudsman’s call for the full implementation of the Children First national guidance and announced plans to invite Dr Muldoon to appear before the Oireachtas Committee.

She outlined a set of urgent legislative and policy priorities, including ending the use of harmful restrictive practices in schools, introducing minimum standards and HIQA oversight for emergency accommodation and addressing child poverty through a coordinated, cross-departmental approach.

“We are at a pivotal moment,” the Westport TD stated. “Every child in Ireland deserves a safe and supportive environment where they can thrive – whether that’s in school, at home, or in a care setting.”

Keogh concluded her remarks by pledging full support for the implementation of the report’s recommendations and reaffirming Ireland’s commitments under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

“The report is not just a list of complaints – it’s a roadmap for action. We must lead with compassion, urgency, and accountability.”

She also extended thanks to the Ombudsman for Children’s Office for “its continued advocacy and commitment to safeguarding children’s rights in Ireland.”

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