Children Act 2001

Notice to adult relative or other adult where proceeding by summons.

65

65.—(1) Where proceedings in respect of an offence alleged to have been committed by a child are to be commenced by the issue of a summons and the whereabouts of his or her parents or guardian are unknown, a notice under this section may be issued to an adult relative of the child or other adult reasonably named by the child, whether or not the adult relative or other adult attended at the Garda Síochána station pursuant to section 58(2).

(2) A notice under this section shall be issued by the member of the Garda Síochána dealing with the child in respect of the offence for which the summons is being issued.

(3) The notice shall state the time, date and place of the sitting of the court in respect of which the summons was issued and shall contain particulars of the offence which the child is alleged to have committed.

(4) The notice shall issue only with the agreement of the child and where the member is of opinion that the adult concerned is likely to be of assistance to, and provide support for, the child during the court proceedings.