Children First National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children (no legislation) (Ireland)
Targeted professionals: “Professionals such as teachers, child care workers, health professionals and those working with adults with serious parenting difficulties. It is also an important responsibility for staff and people involved in sports clubs, community activities, youth clubs, religious/faith sector and other organisations catering for children.” Page 13
Professional Secrecy Provisions
Conditions for disclosing information
“The HSE Children and Family Services should always be informed when a person has reasonable grounds for concern that a child may have been, is being or is at risk of being abused or neglected.” Page 13
Right or duty to report
Right to report, a moral duty only. “Any professional who suspects child abuse or neglect should inform the parents/carers if a report is to be submitted to the HSE Children and Family Services or to An Garda Síochána, unless doing so is likely to endanger the child.” Page 14.
Existence of disciplinary sanctions in case of non-reporting
No
Source
Children First National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children, July 2011 http://www.dcya.gov.ie/documents/child_welfare_protection/ChildrenFirst.pdf
Additional information
Date of entering into force
15/07/2011
Information collecting point
Health Service Executive, An Garda Siochana (National Police)