Citation
Canavan, A. & Gibbons, N. (1999). The Child Care Act 1991: A Guide for Children and Young People in Care. https://knowledge.barnardos.ie/handle/20.500.13085/1223
Abstract
The Child Care Act 1991 is one of the most important laws for children and
young people in this country. Generally children grow up within their own
family but when difficulties arise (for example, death, poverty, abuse and
neglect) it is sometimes necessary for the State to step in. The State
protects children and young people by providing support and help for their
families. If it is not possible to help the family to properly care for and
protect the children, the State and the health boards have a duty to look
after the needs of children. Sometimes this means that a child or young
person needs fo live away from their family in the care of the health
board. The Child Care Act 1991 sets out how this can happen.