Kai speaks at OCO’s ‘Let’s Get It Right’ Report Launch

EPIC was delighted to attend the launch of the Ombudsman for Children’s Office (OCO) Let’s Get It Right report at Mansion House, Dublin. The report sets out a clear, rights‑based vision for children in care, calling for stable relationships, consistent support, stronger accountability, and meaningful participation from children and young people. These are messages EPIC hears every day from young people across the country.

Speaking at the event and taking part in the Q&A panel was EPIC Youth Council member Kai, who spoke powerfully about why lived experience must be at the centre of decision‑making. Stories like his helped inform the development of the Let’s Get It Right report.

Kai’s speech centred on the reality of growing up in care, highlighting the impact the system can have, both when it gets things right and when it doesn’t. Kai highlighted how listening to young people, valuing their voices, and involving them in shaping policy is essential if real change is to happen.

Also speaking at the event were Dr Niall Muldoon, Ireland’s Ombudsman for Children; Dr Tricia Keilthy, Head of Policy at the OCO; and Nuala Ward, Director of Investigations at the OCO, who spoke about the report’s findings and the need for action.

For EPIC, Kai’s contribution was a powerful reminder of why youth participation is not optional – it is vital. Reports like Let’s Get It Right are strongest when they are shaped by the voices of those with lived experience, and Kai’s words showed exactly why.