The North Kerry CAMHS Review led by Dr. Colette Halpin has completed its assessment of around 300 patient files, but the report remains unpublished despite being drafted in June 2025. This delay is causing significant distress for affected families, particularly given that 50% of reviewed cases have resulted in apologies from the HSE, compared to just 15% in the South Kerry Maskey Review.
The Sodium Valproate Inquiry in Ireland officially commenced on 22 July 2025, marking a crucial investigation into the historical use of this epilepsy drug and its devastating effects on children exposed in the womb. This comprehensive inquiry, chaired by Barrister Bríd O’Flaherty BL, will examine decades of prescribing practices, regulatory oversight, and the adequacy of patient warnings regarding Sodium Valproate’s risks to unborn children.
Updated July 2025: The Irish government has now established a full Commission of Investigation into the handling of historical child sexual abuse in schools. This follows the recommendations made in the 2024 O’Toole Report and marks a significant step in acknowledging and addressing the systemic abuse suffered by thousands of students in both day and boarding schools across Ireland.
Coleman Legal LLP is providing legal support and guidance to survivors who wish to come forward and participate in this process or who are seeking legal remedies related to abuse in educational settings. Our solicitors are here to support you.
How we can assist you
Those subjected to sexual abuse in schools while in the care of a religious institution were owed a duty of care, one that was gravely violated. Where such duty has been breached, survivors may have a right to take legal action against the institution responsible, whether for the abuse or its failure to prevent or respond to it. We can advise you on your legal options, including whether a civil claim for damages is a viable course of action.
Our solicitors will listen to your story, assess your circumstances, and guide you through each step of the process. We understand that these matters can be emotionally challenging, and we are here to support you with sensitivity and respect.
In recent years, many survivors have found the courage to speak out, resulting in increased public awareness and official investigations. If you are considering taking the first step toward justice, we are here to help you understand your rights in a safe and confidential space.
Speak to us in confidence
If you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse in a school or institutional setting, please do not hesitate to contact us for confidential advice. Free phone 1800-844-104 or email us [email protected]
Commission of Investigation into sexual abuse in schools?
Announced in July 2025 by Minister for Education Helen McEntee TD, this Commission will investigate how school authorities, religious bodies, and the State handled allegations, concerns, and suspicions of child sexual abuse. It will cover all types of primary and post-primary schools, including those run by religious orders and lay bodies. Key facts:
Chaired by Mr. Justice Michael MacGrath of the Court of Appeal.
Following the O’Toole Scoping Inquiry findings from 2024.
Will include a Survivor Engagement Programme.
Final report to be delivered within 5 years.
Will explore the potential for a future redress scheme.
What did the O’Toole Report reveal?
The Scoping Inquiry, chaired by Mary O’Toole SC, uncovered:
2,395 allegations of historical sexual abuse.
Involving 884 alleged abusers.
Across 308 schools (day and boarding) between 1927 and 2013.
It found significant failings in how abuse was reported and addressed in both religious-run and State-managed schools. The report strongly recommended a full Commission of Investigation and a redress process.
Will there be compensation for survivors?
While no formal redress scheme has been launched yet, the government is considering financial compensation as part of the Commission’s remit. Religious orders are also expected to contribute to any future scheme.
Our legal team can support you in preparing for possible redress or legal action if applicable to your experience.
List of schools named in the inquiry
The Scoping Inquiry received allegations involving 308 schools. While the Commission has not published a final list, many of the schools mentioned in the O’Toole Report have been made public.
You can view a comprehensive summary of the affected schools on the following external resource:
Please note this list is based on published reports and is not exhaustive.
How our solicitors can help
Coleman Legal’s solicitors have extensive experience in sensitive legal matters, including:
Sexual abuse in schools.
Sexual abuse in day and boarding schools.
Clerical abuse.
Psychological trauma and long-term impact.
We can assist survivors in:
Understanding redress or legal action options and support throughout.
Vindicating your right.
Survivor support groups and counselling
We encourage anyone affected by school-related sexual abuse to seek support. There are several national and local services available, including:
HSE National Counselling Service.
One in Four.
Dublin Rape Crisis Centre.
Psychological counselling and trauma support networks.
Our team can also refer you to the appropriate service if needed.
Next steps for survivors
If you are a survivor of historical sexual abuse in school and are seeking legal advice, you are not alone. Contact us for a confidential consultation. We will support you in a respectful, private, and trauma-informed way.
1. Can I claim for abuse suffered in a school in Ireland?
Yes, survivors may be entitled to compensation or legal redress. Our team can provide guidance tailored to your specific circumstances.
2. What is the commission of investigation about?
It is a national Commission investigating how allegations of child sexual abuse were handled across Irish schools.
3. How can I contact a solicitor for advice on sexual abuse when I was in school?
You can contact our team by phone or email to speak confidentially with a solicitor experienced in handling abuse cases. Email us at [email protected] or call us on our free helpline number 1800-844-104.
4. Will there be compensation for sexual abuse in schools?
A formal redress scheme is under review. Religious orders will be called on to contribute.
5. What support is available for survivors of sexual abuse in schools?
In addition to legal advice, support services include counselling, trauma care, and survivor advocacy groups.
Our team has experience dealing with cases involving historical sexual abuse in schools and can help you seek justice. If you are a survivor of sexual abuse, please don’t hesitate to contact us for confidential advice.
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