This report examines various aspects of child care and protection law in Ireland. It is important to note, however, that social, cultural and political mechanisms must also be engaged so as to provide the utmost in care and protection for children. An underlying philosophy prevalent throughout this report is the need to act in a proactive as opposed to reactive manner in the provision of care and protection for children. Our law should seek to protect children first and punish offenders second. It is envisaged that the recommendations posited throughout this report will go some way toward executing this philosophy accordingly.