The tragic case of Valerie French Kilroy, who was brutally murdered by her husband James Kilroy, highlights the urgent need for legislative reform to protect the rights and well-being of children who lose a parent to domestic violence. This case, along with the recent introduction of “Jade’s Law” in the UK, highlights the critical importance of closing the loophole that allows convicted murderers to retain parental rights.
Valerie French Kilroy, an occupational therapist with Mayo Mental Health Services, was brutally murdered by her husband James Kilroy in June 2019. James Kilroy, who was found guilty of the murder, claimed he was suffering from cannabis-induced psychosis. Despite his defence, the jury convicted him, and he was sentenced to life in prison.
The impact of Valerie’s murder on her family has been profound and devastating. Her brother, David French, described the terror and suffering Valerie endured in her final moments, as well as the ongoing trauma experienced by her children and extended family. The murder not only took Valerie’s life but also left her children without a mother and subjected them to the psychological torment of knowing their father was responsible for her death.
Following today’s hearing, Ms French’s family called for a change in the law that allows murderers to retain paternal rights over their children. The victim’s brother, David French said: “This is an absolutely ridiculous situation. Killing a mother is child abuse. Children have to be protected from abusers. Murderers in the UK have their parental rights suspended under what is called Jade’s Law. This loophole needs to be closed to protect the children who are put in this hellish situation every year.”
The Importance of Legislative Reform
The case of Valerie French Kilroy is not an isolated incident. It is the stark reality of the broader issue of domestic violence and the need for robust legal protections for the children of victims. In the UK, “Jade’s Law” was introduced to address this very issue. Named after Jade Ward, who was murdered by her ex-partner, the law aims to automatically suspend the parental rights of individuals convicted of murdering the other parent.
“Jade’s Law” is a significant step forward in protecting children from further harm. It prevents convicted murderers from exerting control or influence over their children, thereby reducing the risk of continued psychological and emotional abuse. The law recognises that the best interests of the child must take precedence over the rights of a parent who has committed such a heinous act.
Despite the clear need for such protections, many jurisdictions still have loopholes that allow convicted murderers to retain their parental rights. This can lead to prolonged legal battles and additional trauma for the children and surviving family members. In the case of Valerie French Kilroy, her brother has called for similar legislative changes to be implemented to prevent other families from enduring the same suffering.
Adding to the complexity of this case is the fact that James Kilroy claimed diminished responsibility and insanity due to cannabis-induced psychosis. Despite this claim, he retains full parental rights. This situation raises serious questions about the state’s role in protecting children. How can the state allow a convicted murderer, who claimed insanity, to retain any form of parental control? This loophole not only undermines the justice system but also places the children at continued risk of psychological harm.
The question we must ask ourselves is: Would we be content if our child, a family member, or a friend was murdered, and the murderer retained parental rights over the children left behind? This is not just a hypothetical scenario, it is a reality for many families affected by domestic violence. The emotional and psychological well-being of these children should be our paramount concern.
Allowing a convicted murderer to retain parental rights can have devastating consequences. It can lead to ongoing manipulation and control, hinder the healing process, and perpetuate the cycle of abuse. By closing this legislative loophole, we can provide a measure of justice and protection for the most vulnerable members of our society.
We must demand more for children who are victims of domestic violence. Legislative bodies need to act swiftly to close the loophole that allows convicted murderers to retain parental rights. This is not just a legal issue, it is a moral and ethical imperative. The suffering of children like those of Valerie French Kilroy should not be prolonged by outdated and inadequate laws.
We must prioritise the well-being of all children and ensure that they are not subjected to additional trauma by allowing their parent’s murderer to retain parental rights. It is time for us to take a stand and demand more for the victims of domestic violence and their families.
If you have experienced any form of abuse, coercive control, violence, or sexual violence, please reach out to the following services …
Women’s Aid – call 1800 341 900
An Garda Siochana – call 999 / 112
Rape Crisis Centre – call 1800 77 8888
