(1)A probation and social welfare officer, any member of the police force or an authorised person who has reasonable grounds for believing that a child in his or her area is suffering or is likely to suffer significant harm, after notifying the secretary for children's affairs of the local government council in writing, may take the child and place him or her under emergency protection in a place of safety for a maximum period of forty-eight hours.

(2)The probation and social welfare officer or the authorised person may be assisted by a police officer in removing and taking the child to a place of safety.

(3)As soon as possible, and in any case within the period of forty­eight hours referred to in subsection (1), the probation and social welfare officer, police officer or authorised person shall take the child to the secretary for children's affairs of the local government council of the area or before a family and children court and shall make a report, taking into account the wishes of the child.

(4)A person who places a child under emergency protection may, if he or she deems it necessary, ensure the provision of medical attention or treatment, including medical examination of the child.

(5)Whenever a child is placed under emergency protection, his or her parents or the persons with whom the child was living shall be informed as soon as practicable and shall be allowed to have contact with the child unless it is not in the interest of the child.