“Safeguarding Children”, Standards and Guidance Document for the Catholic Church in Ireland, extends the principles outlined in “Our Children, Our Church” (OCOC). From these principles, seven standards have been developed which represent best practice in the field of safeguarding children, in the Church and all related Church activities. The guidance will be circulated over the coming months to all Dioceses, Congregations and Religious Communities, and will replace OCOC as the standards to be followed in protecting children.

The National Office will run a series of seminars and information sessions when distributing “Safeguarding Children”, starting with a meeting of Diocesan Delegates in January 2009. Congregational designated officers, their Leaders and other key people will be invited to attend regional events early during Spring, 2009.