The report into how British child killer Ian Huntley was allowed obtain a job in a school highlights the shortcomings of systems in place in Ireland, the ISPCC said today.
The Irish Society of the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (ISPCC) said vetting systems in operation in the Britain were "comprehensive and well developed" when compared to procedures in the Republic.
The report found a "deeply shocking" catalogue of errors. Inquiry chairman Sir Michael Bichard called on the Chief Constable of Humberside Police, Mr David Westwood, to take "personal responsibility" for a host of "very serious failings" in his force. The crucial shortcoming was the inability of police in England and Wales to share information, it found.
"Many people wishing to work with children on a professional or voluntary basis in the Republic of Ireland are still not vetted," the ISPCC said in a statement.
"The deaths of Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman are a child protection tragedy. In order to avoid similar tragedies occurring in Ireland, it is imperative that every possible measure is taken to ensure children are protected.
"One of the basic foundations of an adequate child protection system is comprehensive vetting and screening procedures."
The ISPCC acknowledged the Government is seeking to build a screening and vetting system. "While welcoming the work done on this issue to date, the ISPCC believes that in light of the Soham report it is now imperative that immediate action is taken to introduce an adequate vetting system and that any remaining obstacles to such a development are removed," the statement added.