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National guidance for the protection and welfare of children

A revised and updated Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children has come into force in Ireland.

The guide sets out specific protocols for Health Service Executive (HSE) social workers, gardaí and other front line staff in dealing with suspected abuse and neglect.

The revised version has been welcomed as a more robust, accessible and concise document which reflects changes in the Irish child protection system over the past twelve years.

Detail on the changes relevant to arts organizations and individuals working with children and young people is available on the website

Meanwhile, The Minister for Justice has published a National Vetting Bureau Bill.

This Bill proposes to introduce mandatory vetting of all employees and volunteers who come in regular close contact with children and/or vulnerable adults. It will introduce mandatory vetting of all positions within the administration and implementation of state justice, as well as positions that involve state security.

The proposal provides for the establishment of the National Vetting Bureau which will replace the Garda Central Vetting Office. It provides a legal framework for Garda Vetting, and includes for the first time, a definition of ‘vulnerable adult’.

It is anticipated that this measure will be enacted by mid-2012.

The Arts Council, in a statement, said these developments provide a long awaited statutory basis, offering a much more robust framework within which to create safe environments to engage with children, young people and vulnerable adults.

The Arts Council continues to encourage and support the development of safe practice within the arts sector and will provide on-going updates and information as they become available.

A detailed briefing is on the website

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05nov11 434
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