20 years after adopting UN Convention, Government confirm wording to enshrine children’s rights in Irish constitution.
UNICEF Ireland has welcomed the publication by the Government of the wording for a Children’s Referendum to be held on Saturday 10th November 2012.
Executive Director of UNICEF Ireland Peter Power, former Chairman of the Oireachtas Committee on Child Protection, said:
“I welcome today’s announcement by An Taoiseach and Minister Fitzgerald that the wording for a children’s referendum has been agreed.
“This is a timely development given that this month marks the 20th anniversary of Ireland’s ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
“This referendum, if approved by the Irish people, will fully enshrine these principles in the Irish constitution.
“UNICEF has repeatedly called on the Irish Government to fulfil its international obligations by amending the constitution to stengthen the rights of children. Following the recent publications of devestating reports on the abuse of children in the State, we must now as a society ensure that each child receives the care and protection they deserve.
“It’s vital that children’s voices are listened to in a meaninful way during the public debate that will follow. UNICEF Ireland will speak directly to and on behalf of the children affected by this crucial referendum,” he concluded.
UNICEF advocates for and promotes children’s rights in all situations. UNICEF Ireland’s campaign on the Children’s Referendum “It’s About You” will be rolled out over the coming weeks. Further information, including workshops for teachers and youth leaders desgined to facilitate dialogue with and between young people, will be available on www.unicef.ie/itsaboutyou
ENDS.
For further comment, please contact Claire McKeever or Julianne Savage on 01 878 3000 claire@unicef.ie julianne@unicef.ie