Toy firm Mattel has recalled almost two million toys on sale in Ireland and Britain because of hazards from small magnets and lead paint.
This is the second time in a month the largest US toy manufacturer has been forced to recall Chinese-manufactured products because of safety concerns.
The withdrawal of more than 18 million magnetic toys globally was prompted by hundreds of reports in the US of magnets coming loose.
Three children swallowed more than one magnet and suffered perforations of the intestine that required surgery. When more than one magnet is swallowed they can attract one another and the resulting blockage can be fatal.
The magnetic toys that have been recalled include 53 types of Polly Pocket dolls, 11 Doggie Day Care toys, four Batman toys and the accessory part of one Barbie toy.
The latest recall also includes 49,000 toy cars which may contain excessive amounts of lead paint.
The Republic's largest toy retailer, Smyths, said it had removed affected items from the shelves from all its 27 stores.
The company said it stocked just seven of the products on Mattel's recall list.
These include Polly Pocket Limo, Pollyworld Theme Park, Polly Pocket Snow Cool Hotel, Polly Pocket Totally Beadful, Polly Rocking Theme Park, Barbie and Tanner, and the Sarge character from the film Cars.
Smyths said customers with any concerns could bring affected products back to stores and receive a full refund.
Byrne's World of Wonder said the recall affected a very small number of the products it stocked but these had been removed from the shelves. It also said customers could avail of a refund where they returned affected items.
Less than a fortnight ago, Mattel pulled more than 20,000 Fisher-Price toys from the Republic amid concerns about lead in their paint.
The toys were based on popular series such as Sesame Street and Dora the Explorer.
Mattel chief executive Robert Eckert said in a statement yesterday: "Mattel has rigorous procedures, and we will continue to be vigilant and unforgiving in enforcing quality and safety."
Mattel took out full-page advertisements in US newspapers yesterday assuring parents of the company's commitment to the safety of their children.
"Nothing is more important than the safety of our children," Mr Eckert wrote. "Our long record of safety at Mattel is why we're one of the most trusted names with parents. And I am confident that the actions we are taking now will maintain that trust."
News of the second recall comes as an owner of the Chinese toy factory at the centre of the first recall was reported to have committed suicide. Mattel's shares dropped 6 per cent on foot of yesterday's recall.
Customers with concerns are advised to contact Mattel's helpline in the UK on 0044 1628 500 303 or visit the company's UK website at www.service.mattel.com/uk/.
