Jim O'Callaghan, the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, has officially introduced a new suite of multimedia tools and videos created to guide children through the complexities of the family justice system.

Specifically tailored for children between the ages of 8 and 12, these resources are intended for those dealing with family transitions, such as divorce or separation, or those whose parents are currently involved in the family court process. Regarding the launch, Minister O'Callaghan stated: "It is a priority for me that we ensure a greater understanding of the family law system in order to maintain and build trust in it. This applies to people of all ages, including children. During times of family change it is understandable that children and young people may have a lot of questions. The videos I am launching today are designed to help children understand these change and reassure them that supports are available. Each video focuses on a specific topic or stage that a child may encounter as their family goes through the family courts system or engages with family justice processes such as mediation."

These child-centric materials represent a significant step in the broader reform of the Irish family justice system. The initiative delivers on a primary objective of the Family Justice Strategy 2022-2025, a programme designed to pivot the system toward the specific rights and requirements of children.

Minister O'Callaghan further commented: "I would like to thank the many family and child-centred service providers who collaborated and engaged with my department. In particular, I want to mention the Courts Service, Legal Aid Board and Cuan, who generously shared their time, insights and first-hand experience throughout the development of these resources. Their involvement has been essential in ensuring the information provided is accurate and, most importantly, understandable for the children and their families who are accessing it."

The project received support from the Dormant Accounts Fund. The video series can be viewed online at www.gov.ie/FamilyChanges or via the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration's YouTube channel.