Ombudsman for Children Received 1,778 Complaints in 2025, Urges UNCRC Incorporation

The Ombudsman for Children's Office (OCO) received 1,778 complaints about children's public services in 2025, with 1,552 individual complaints. 81% came from parents and 4% from children. Complaints became more complex, with 15% referring to multiple agencies.

Education (31%), Tusla (20%), and health services (14%) were the top concerns. Education complaints focused on Special Educational support, bullying, and school management. Tusla complaints involved Special Emergency Arrangements, Special Care, and interagency work. Health service complaints cited access to CAMHS, hospital stays beyond medical need, and lack of dental care. 3% of complaints related to International Protection Accommodation Services (IPAS) and 6% to housing issues, particularly for children with disabilities.

The OCO engaged with over 2,500 children through workshops and outreach. The Government committed to a Child and Family Homelessness Action Plan in 2025. Support for child defendants in courts was introduced, and children were included in homecare support regulatory frameworks. The Ombudsman called for full incorporation of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) into Irish law, highlighting Ireland's EU presidency as a pivotal moment.