PARENT are not explicitly banned from smacking their children in Northern Ireland but under law it is illegal to inflict injuries causing more than a temporary reddening of the skin.
The 2004 Children Act states it is illegal for a parent or carer to smack their child except where this amounts to 'reasonable punishment'.
Identifying when a smack amounts to reasonable punishment will depend on the circumstances of each case, taking into consideration factors such as the age of the child and the nature of the smack. Physical punishment will be considered 'unreasonable' if it leaves a mark on the child or if the child is hit with an implement such as a cane or a belt.
It is illegal for teachers, nursery workers and child care workers to smack another person's child.
If a person is employed privately by a parent, such as a baby sitter or nanny, the parent may give permission for that person to smack their child as long as it is reasonable and does not amount to an offence.
A parent can be charged with a criminal offence if they harm their child under certain offences, including Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH) and Actual Bodily Harm (ABH).
Any adult found guilty of breaking the law may face up to five years in jail.