There has been considerable discussion around the subject in recent years, and now it has been revealed that the Irish Government is set to review existing laws which permit the slapping of children.

 

The review, which is set to be announced later today, follows a ruling by the Council of Europe that our law’s lack of a clear slapping ban equates to a violation of young people’s rights.

 

Despite the fact that legislation allowing parents to use force against their children was repealed over a decade ago, there has been concern over the fact that a “reasonable chastisement” defence still exists in our law.

 

According to reports this morning, it is anticipated that the Council of Europe will today rule that our laws on corporal punishment are in breach of the European Social Charter, which vows “to protect children and young persons against negligence, violence or exploitation”.

 

It is expected that Minister for Children James O’Reilly will, in turn, introduce new legislation to facilitate the ban in foster and residential care.

 

The decision for Europe to step in and review came following a complaint by a UK-based charity.

 

We will keep you updated on the story as it progresses.

 

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