Ombudsman for Children (OCO) 2017 Annual Report launched today

State agencies need to cooperate in the best interests  of children – Ombudsman for Children

• Annual Report 2017 shows 1,755 new complaints, up 4% from 2016, 7% since 2015
• Concerns for children experiencing mental health issues and homelessness
• First year dealing with complaints about Direct Provision Centres

The Ombudsman for Children Dr Niall Muldoon has today expressed concern about the failure of public bodies to adequately consider the best interest of children in the delivery of services and policy decisions.

Launching the Dr Muldoon said: “In 2017, we saw another increase in the number of new complaints, and this highlights a continued failure by public bodies to put the best interests of children at the centre of their decisions.”

Education and Child Protection and Welfare remain the two most complained about sectors. The Office is also concerned about children and young people who are experiencing mental health issues, homelessness, and who live in Direct Provision accommodation.

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Click here to download the report.