9. (1) The Agency shall, when making decisions in relation to the performance of its functions under section 8(1)(a), (b) or (c), have regard to the best interests of the child in all matters.

(2) Notwithstanding the generality of subsection (1), the Agency shall, in performing its functions in respect of an individual child under the Child Care Act 1991 or the Adoption Act 2010, regard the best interests of the child as the paramount consideration.

(3) The Agency shall, when planning and reviewing the provision of services in connection with the performance of functions under section 8(1)(a), (b) or (c), ensure that consideration is given to the views of children.

(4) The Agency shall, in performing its functions in respect of an individual child under the Child Care Act 1991, the Education (Welfare) Act 2000, F7[the Adoption Act 2010, the Children First Act 2015 or] section 8(1)(c) or 8(3), ensure that the views of that individual child, where that child is capable of forming and expressing his or her own views, be ascertained and given due weight having regard to the age and maturity of the child.