Grandparents do not have automatic rights in relation to their grandchildren, but there are steps you can take to improve your level of contact with them.

How do I request more time with my grandchildren? You should first speak to the child’s parents or guardians. If no agreement can be reached, you should consider family mediation. If mediation is not successful, you can apply to the court for access to your grandchildren. In certain situations, you can apply for custody or guardianship.

How do I apply for access to my grandchild? If you are having difficulty maintaining contact with your grandchildren, you can apply for access through your local District Court. Access means you will have a legal right to direct contact with the child, which may include overnight stays (sleepovers). The court will always put your grandchild’s needs first. You should get professional legal advice before making an application.

How do I apply for custody of a grandchild? If you have custody of a child, you are responsible for their day-to-day care, accommodation and upbringing. Any relative, including a grandparent, can apply to their local District Court for custody of a child. Usually, the court will only grant you custody if it has the parents’ or guardians’ consent. However, the court can dispense with the consent (decide that the parents’ consent is not needed) if a custody order is in the child’s best interests.

Is there any financial support available? If you are the main carer of the child, and the child is not being properly maintained financially by either or both parents, you can apply to the District Court for a maintenance order. If the court grants your application, the parent(s) must give you money towards the care of the child. You may also be eligible to claim the Guardian’s Payment from the Department of Social Protection.

How do I become a guardian? To apply for guardianship, you must complete a form called a ‘Notice of application by an eligible person to be appointed a guardian’. You should get professional legal advice before making an application. The court will decide the extent of your guardianship rights and responsibilities. The court can also remove your guardianship rights at a later date, if it is in the child’s best interests.

I was granted access, but still cannot see my grandchild. What can I do? If you already have an access or custody order from the court, but are not getting contact with your grandchild, you can seek an enforcement order. If the parents or guardians refuse to comply with a court order, they can be fined up to €2,500, go to prison for up to 12 months, or both.

If you need further information contact your local Citizens Information Service in Bantry (Monday to Thursday 10am-5pm, Friday 10am-4pm) or ring 0818 07 8390. Alternatively you can email on [email protected] or log on to www.citizensinformation.ie