THE brother of Leap mum-of-three Valerie French, who was murdered by her husband in Mayo in 2019, has said the publishing of legislation to remove guardian rights from convicted killers is a ‘very significant milestone.’

David French, who has campaigned tirelessly to implement Valerie’s Law, said he welcomed the announcement from the Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan relating to the proposed legislation, the Guardianship of Infants (Amendment) Bill 2026, widely referred to as ‘Valerie’s Law.’

‘I look forward to the text of the Bill and the next step is the Dáil debate which is hopefully later this month. If it is voted through that then it moves onto the Seanad,’ said David.

‘If it is voted through there then it goes to the President for checking and signing. The next step is to lobby TDs now.’

He added that this is the ‘start of the process, not the end.’

‘Up to now, there has been a loophole in the law where guardianship continues even after a murder conviction. The system assumes everything continues as normal, but murder is not normal. There was an anomaly there and this legislation begins to address it.’

David’s sister, Valerie French, was killed by her husband James Kilroy at her home near Westport in June 2019.

He was convicted of her murder in July 2024 and handed a mandatory life sentence after a jury rejected his claim that he was insane when he killed her.

Under the current law, David’s sister’s killer continues to be informed about his children’s whereabouts and remains involved in major decisions affecting their lives. Since his conviction David has campaigned tirelessly to change the law in his sister Valerie’s name.

Just last year David wrote a book ‘For Valerie’ in memory of his late sister whose life was ended when she was just 42, and remembered her as a vibrant, creative young woman who lived life to the full.

Sinn Féin MEP for Ireland South, Kathleen Funchion commended David for his ongoing campaigning to close this loophole and protect children from further harm.

‘It’s unimaginable that bereaved families, already facing profound trauma, are forced to confront this injustice in court. The law as it stands only deepens their pain,’ she said.

‘While it is positive that the Minister for Justice is bringing legislations to Cabinet, the issue extends beyond this State. It is vital that we push for change across all EU member
states.’

Fianna Fáil spokesperson on Justice in the Seanad, Senator Robbie Gallagher said this is a ‘necessary and long overdue step.’

‘Where one parent has killed the other, the law must be clear that the rights of the child come first. I want to acknowledged the courage and persistence of David and his family in campaigning for this change.’

He added that the legislation must now be progressed without delay, while ensuring it is robust and constitutionally sound.