Sir, - Here we go again, another report calling for the introduction of mandatory reporting of child abuse. Dr Murphy's latest report on the abuse of children highlights once again that while debate and discussion on guidelines goes on, children continue to be abused. This is the fourth major report by professionals in the past five years in Ireland into child abuse. All have one thing in common. They recommend that mandatory reporting should be introduced.
This week Minister Frank Fahy has confirmed that there is a massive rise in referrals of suspected child abuse - many will say that mandatory reporting will damage an already overworked, understaffed and under-resourced child protection service. However, a basic civil right for children is that they should be treated the same as, if not better than adults, particularly if a crime is suspected or committed against them. Children should have the full support of the state and its professionals.
Child welfare should not be used by social workers and others to highlight the major problems in child protection. The wrong message is being sent out to victims. There is one law for adults and another for children. It is unacceptable that this is so, particularly when stated that it is in the interests of a professional relationship.
There is a need for clear and concise leadership particularly by our Minister for Children and all professionals providing a health care service. The fundamental question to be answered is - should any crime or suspected crime be exempt from the law?
There will always be a need for our society to be aware and care for those less well off, at risk, or who are vulnerable, such as the elderly, the sick and particularly our children. But to have two separate procedures for the reporting of a suspected crime, not only is unacceptable, but is a civil right denied. - Yours, etc., Tommy Morris,
(Medical Social Worker).
Leixlip,
Co Kildare.