The committee’s inquiry, which was launched today with a call for evidence, will focus on identifying solutions and scrutinising child poverty targets.

In particular, the inquiry will address issues such as the scrutiny arrangements for the targets for eradicating child poverty by 2020 and halving child poverty by 2010; the role of Single Outcome Agreements and Community Planning Partnerships in relation to policy and service delivery; and how to support parents into decently paid work.

The committee will also consider the role it can play in measuring what is happening in relation to child poverty targets on a regular basis.

Committee Convener Duncan McNeil MSP said:

"Child poverty adversely affects every aspect of a child's life including their health, education, future employment and well-being.

"The committee wants to identify those areas where action would bring about the most immediate and significant difference, such as how the targets on ending child poverty by 2020 and halving child poverty by 2010 can best be met.

"Securing a childhood that is poverty free and ensuring that today's children can fully realise their potential as tomorrow's active citizens is an issue that deserves our attention."

For more information on the inquiry or how to submit evidence visit the Committee’s website. For further articles on child poverty see: http://www.holyrood.com/content/view/2387/10524/