The number of child abductions reported in the State last year increased by 24 compared to 2004, new figures have shown.
The Central Authority for Child Abduction, which operates under the aegis of the Department of Justice, processed 94 new child abduction cases - involving 154 children - last year. A further 33 cases were carried forward from 2004.
Of a total of 127 cases dealt with, 70 concerned abductions from other countries and 57 abductions from the State.
In four incoming cases, the High Court ordered the return of children to other countries and in six cases, the Court refused the return of a child. In 10 cases the children were either returned voluntarily or the parties reached an agreement.
Six applications were withdrawn, one case was forwarded to the Health Service Executive, one applicant did not qualify for legal aid, and in another case assistance was given under EU legislation for a child from another EU state in foster care here.
A further 39 cases were awaiting resolution at the end of the year. One foreign access order was registered and one application was refused as the father did not have rights to custody.