The Social Democrats will introduce a landmark Bill to provide for the suspension of child guardianship rights where a parent is convicted of the murder or manslaughter of the other parent.
The Guardianship of Infants (Amendment) Bill 2025 would allow for an interim suspension of guardianship rights immediately on conviction, with exceptions allowed for in certain cases of manslaughter where it would not be in the interests of justice to proceed.
It would allocate responsibility to the Child and Family Agency to apply for a full suspension of guardianship rights where it is in the best interests of the child, and where another guardian is available.
The Bill also allows for the appointment of a Guardian Ad Litem to provide the child with separate representation to ensure that their views are heard in the proceedings. Under the new law, the child would be given age-appropriate information on the proceedings and outcome of the case.
Social Democrats’ justice spokesperson Gary Gannon will take over the introduction of the Bill from party leader Holly Cairns, who has been working on this vital reform since 2024.
Deputy Gannon said:
“This Bill is strongly influenced by persons who have been murdered by their partners, in particular Valerie French, and aims to address concerns for the safety of the children left behind in such tragic circumstances.
“This crucial piece of legislation, which will be known as ‘Valerie’s Law’, seeks to address an anomaly in Irish law where a parent convicted of killing the other parent retains guardianship of their children.
“It is shocking that children who, after the traumatic loss of a parent, are left in a position where the person who has caused their pain and suffering can still exert influence over their lives, in areas such as education, health, and welfare. This important piece of legislation will change that.
“Valerie’s needless death must mark a turning point for all families bereaved by domestic homicide. In introducing this Bill, I would like to pay tribute to Valerie’s brother, David French, for his tireless pursuit of justice and determination to push for the enactment of this long overdue legislation.”
April 8, 2025