Pat's Answer

What are my rights, my parents want to send me abroad

Your Question

My Question is about my Rights My Parents want to send me abroad Is there any way to stop this at age 12. I reallly don’t want to go. I will lack on my education, my socializimg and more. They will force me me go. If i don’t know my rights. Thanks, from a child

Answer

Welcome to Ask Pat and thank you for your question.  

You are asking about your rights and if your parents have the right to force you to go abroad at age 12.  

It sounds like a difficult and unfair situation for you to be in. You are concerned if you are forced to go abroad that your education, your socialization and more, will suffer. It is understandable you have these fears and concerns and want to know your rights. Parents/guardians have a responsibility to look out for their children and make sure they are loved and safe. You do not mention why your parents are looking to send you abroad. We are wondering if you have spoken to them to let them know your feelings about having to leave Ireland. 

You have the right to be safe and happy. You also have the right to be listened to and have your feelings heard. You have the right to your education. You have the right to speak to someone who can support you, for example, adults in your life like your teachers, principal, relatives, and doctor, all have a responsibility to listen to you and get you help if you are in need. 

Túsla is the Child and Family Agency in Ireland and part of their job is to ensure that the best interests of the child guide all decisions affecting individual children. This link can help you find your local Túsla office www.tusla.ie/get-in-touch/local-area-offices/ . You may need the help of an adult that you trust to be able to talk to somebody there. Another website where you can find out about your rights is www.childrensrights.ie. There are also some articles on children’s rights on the Childline website www.childline.ie/your-rights/  

The Childline Team is always here to listen to you if you feel that you cannot talk to somebody in your life just yet. You are welcome to talk to the Team by phone on 1800 66 66 66, by text on 50101 or through web chat on www.childline.ie. Childline is open 24-hours a day, every day. The services are free and confidential. Childline is here for you whenever you would like to talk or chat, and we really would love to hear from you soon. Childline can help you to look at some options that may be available to you. 

Thank you for reaching out to us. Remember, you do not have to go through this alone, Childline is here for you. 

Take care of yourself, 

Pat

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