How should the state act to reduce child abuse in New Zealand?
The government is considering sanctions that could see convicted child abusers' babies removed from their care at birth.
Social Development Minister Paula Bennett says it seems odd for those convicted of child abuse, or even murder, to be allowed have further children of their own.
"We don't even do that when dogs are abused," she said.
Green Party co-leader Metiria Turei criticised Ms Bennett's stance, calling it a populist move.
"She is so busy blaming children and mothers that she is not addressing the fact that thousands of women and children cry out for help each year and are not getting it," said Ms Turei.
Labour MP Annette King says the law already allows the state to remove babies from their parents if they are considered at risk.
Michael Laws spoke to Paula Bennett about the Ngaire Kura Tukiwaho drunken-smothering case and the government's plans to prevent such occurrences.
How much should the state intervene?