Children in Scotland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland have equal protection from assault caused by adults. However, Northern Ireland still allows for a defence of ‘reasonable chastisement’ if a parent or adults smacks a child and is prosecuted. 

Justice Minister Naomi Long has expressed her desire for a law change, which Lagan Valley MLA Ms Guy said she wholeheartedly supported.

“The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health published a report in 2024 on the impact of physical punishment on children and young people. It found the use of physical punishment has a negative impact on children’s physical and mental health, as well as their social, emotional and behavioural outcomes,” she said.

“It also raised concerns identifying abuse became a more subjective process for professionals, allowing abusers to hid behind the defence. 

“Children’s rights campaigners and organisations, such as the NSPCC, the Children’s Commissioner and Children’s Law Centre have long campaigned for a change in the law to ensure equal protection of children.

“This isn’t about criminalising parents, as is clear from our neighbouring nations, it is about ensuring the protection of children.

“It is incredibly disappointing to hear the Justice Minister has not been able to secure agreement needed from other Executive Ministers to deliver a change in the law in that area in the Justice Bill. I believe those not giving their support should listen to the experts and reconsider.”