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(1) If the Department has reasonable grounds to suspect child abuse or a need for care and protection, it shall direct a probation officer or social welfare officer accompanied by the police to enter and search the premises where the child is kept to investigate.

(2) The Department shall direct the probation officer or the social welfare officer to refer the matter to a Child Panel established under section 27 of this Act if the child is not in immediate need of care and protection.

(3) If after investigation it is determined that the child has been abused or is in need of immediate care and protection the Department shall direct a probation officer or social welfare officer accompanied by the police to remove the child to a place of safety for a period of not more than seven days.

(4) The child shall be brought before a Family Tribunal by the probation officer or social welfare officer before the expiry of the seven day period for an order to be made.

(5) Until the Family Tribunal determines the order, the Family Tribunal may commit the child to an approved residential home or to the care of a probation officer, social welfare officer or other suitable person.