Valerie’s Law: A Landmark Step Forward for Children’s Rights and Protection

The recent passing of Valerie’s Law by the Dáil marks a significant milestone in strengthening legal protections for children and recognising the devastating impact of domestic homicide on families.

Officially known as the Guardianship of Infants and Child Care (Amendment) Bill 2026, the legislation ensures that a parent who kills the other parent of their child will no longer automatically retain guardianship rights. This important change places the safety, wellbeing and best interests of children at the centre of the law.

The Story Behind Valerie’s Law

Valerie’s Law is named in memory of Valerie French, a 41-year-old mother of three from County Mayo, who was tragically killed by her husband, James Kilroy, in June 2019.

Following Valerie’s death, her family faced the unimaginable reality that the person responsible for her murder continued to hold guardianship rights over their children. Valerie’s brother led a determined campaign to change the law, arguing that someone convicted of killing the other parent should not automatically retain legal authority over decisions affecting their children’s lives.

His campaign highlighted a significant gap in Irish family law and called for reforms that would better protect children during the most traumatic circumstances.

What Does Valerie’s Law Change?

Before this legislation, a parent who was a legal guardian generally retained those rights, even after being convicted of killing the child’s other parent. Families often had to navigate lengthy and distressing legal processes to address guardianship arrangements.

Under Valerie’s Law:

• A parent convicted of killing the child’s other parent will no longer automatically retain guardianship rights.
• The legislation applies equally to married and unmarried parents.
• The law prioritises the welfare and best interests of children when determining guardianship arrangements.
• It helps reduce additional legal and emotional burdens on grieving families.

This legislation recognises that children affected by domestic homicide deserve protection, stability and decisions that place their wellbeing first.

Why This Matters

Domestic abuse and domestic homicide have lifelong consequences for children. Even when children are not physically harmed, they are profoundly affected by the loss of a parent, exposure to violence and the trauma that follows.

Valerie’s Law acknowledges these realities and represents an important shift towards a more compassionate and child-centred legal system. It also reflects the power of advocacy, showing how the determination of one family can bring about meaningful national change.

While no law can undo the pain experienced by families who have lost a loved one through domestic violence, legislative reform can help prevent further harm and ensure that children’s rights remain paramount.

Donegal Women’s Centre Welcomes This Change

At Donegal Women’s Centre, we welcome the passing of Valerie’s Law as an important advancement in protecting children and supporting families affected by domestic abuse.

We remain committed to providing information, advocacy and support for women experiencing domestic, sexual or gender-based violence, while continuing to campaign for policies that promote safety, justice and equality.

Legislative changes such as Valerie’s Law demonstrate the importance of listening to survivors and bereaved families, and of building systems that respond with compassion, accountability and a focus on children’s welfare.

If you or someone you know needs support, Donegal Women’s Centre is here to help.

Visit www.donegalwomenscentre.ie to learn more about our services, access resources or contact our team in confidence.