A report into the Catholic Church's handling of child protection measures is due to be published today.

It follows an extensive audit by the Heath Service Executive of every Catholic diocese in the country.

The Minister for Children Barry Andrews is also expected to publish recommendations relating to allegations of clerical abuse in the diocese of Cloyne.

It's understood that the nationwide audit will raise concerns about a lack of proper adherence to child protection guidelines in a number of dioceses throughout the country.

The report will detail the Church's handling of complaints of clerical abuse, and whether or not the proper steps were taken to address the allegations.

Minister Andrews will also publish recommendations regarding the Cork diocese of Cloyne, which has already faced widespread criticism over its mishandling of abuse allegations.