electiveHQ

This module critically examines the history of child protection in Ireland including the use of large scale institutions. This module examines the circumstances in which the state may intervene in family life to protect children from harm. This raises profound questions about the relationships between the child, the parent, and the state and justification for state intervention. The module also explores issues surrounding care for children outside of their birth family. The module will engage with the need for inquiries into historic abuses in institutional care such as the inquiry into the state's role in Mother and Baby Homes. The module will also examine the current legal framework for state intervention into the family. 1. Theoretical approaches to child protection - the duty of the state. 2. Historical perspectives on Irish child protection law. 3. State inquiries on abuses in institutional care. 4. Current Legal Framework for state intervention into the family.