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The final “Grace Case” report

Tuesday saw the release of the nearly 2000-page final commission report on the “Grace case”, which has generated significant attention and concern over the years. It supports evidence of extreme neglect but not of sexual or emotional abuse.

According to the report, there was “a fundamental failure by the South Eastern Health Board and the HSE in their duty of care to Grace in the circumstances” and “a general absence of oversight and monitoring of Grace in her placement” by health officials.

If you or a loved one have experienced abuse or neglect while in foster care or under State-supported services, please get in touch with us in confidence to discuss your experience and explore your legal options. Email: [email protected] or Freephone: 1800 844 104

What is the “Grace case”?

Following the report’s release, Minister Foley emphasised the significance of comprehending the “Grace case”.

“Importantly, at the heart of the report is the story of Grace, the pseudonym chosen to protect the identity and privacy of the young woman who lived with the foster family.

“We do not know her name, and that is what it should be. “But I think it is important that we understand that she is, as detailed in the report.” Grace’s mother, who was 17, moved to a mother-and-baby home in Cork two months before her birth. Grace was born on November 24, 1978.

It was later identified that Grace had a disorder known as microcephaly, where a baby’s head is significantly smaller than expected for the baby’s age. As a result of this condition, Grace suffered from severe physical and intellectual disabilities for the rest of her life.

“The Commission’s final report describes how she required full-time assistance with almost every aspect of daily living as a child and an adult”. This includes dressing oneself and using bathroom facilities. Minister Foley said Grace needed provision for everything and depended on others.

Grace was in foster care until 2009

The Farrelly Commission was set up in March 2017 to investigate the Grace case and about 47 additional foster placements at the same house. In 1995. The South Eastern Health Board decided to stop placing any additional residents in the home as a result of claims that Grace suffered abuse

In 1996, a decision to remove Grace was overturned for unidentified reasons. As a result, Grace remained at the house until 2009, when a whistleblower filed a report alleging that Grace had experienced physical and sexual abuse.

Findings of the Report

• The Commission did not establish that Grace had been subjected to sexual abuse during the time she lived with Family X.
• The Commission was not satisfied that there was sufficient evidence that the marks and bruises on Grace were a result of physical abuse.
• There was a finding of neglect in the standard of care about Grace’s general hygiene and clothing.
• The Commission did not establish that Grace was neglected in relation to food and sustenance.
• The Commission found that there was severe neglect of dental care.
• The Commission did not find evidence that Grace had been emotionally abused.

FAQs for survivors of foster care abuse

1. Who was ‘Grace’?

Grace is a pseudonym referring to a woman with profound intellectual disabilities who was placed in a foster home in Ireland from 1989 to 2009. During that time, she suffered severe neglect, shedding light on critical failures in the state’s duty of care.

2. What were the main findings of the Farrelly Commission report?

The Farrelly Commission found that Grace experienced severe neglect, including poor hygiene, inadequate dental care, and financial mismanagement. However, the report did not find sufficient evidence to confirm allegations of sexual or physical abuse.

3. Were there others affected in the same foster home?

Yes, Grace was one of 47 children placed in the same foster home. While some allegations were raised concerning other children, the Commission’s second phase, which was to investigate these cases, was not pursued by the government.

4. What actions can survivors of similar abuse take?

Survivors can seek legal advice to explore options for justice and compensation. Documenting experiences and consulting with professionals who have experience handling such cases is essential.

5. How can I access support services?

Support services include counselling, legal aid, and advocacy groups. Organisations specialising in supporting survivors of institutional abuse can provide guidance and assistance.

6. Is there a time limit for taking legal action?

Time limits, known as statutes of limitations, can apply to legal actions. However, exceptions may exist, especially in cases involving historical abuse. Consulting with a legal professional can provide clarity on your specific situation.

7. What if I reported abuse, but no action was taken?

If previous reports were ignored, seeking legal counsel to understand your rights and potential courses of action is advisable. New evidence or changes in the legal landscape may offer opportunities for redress.

Our team

Coleman Legal LLP understands the deep trauma and silence that can follow abuse in a foster or institutional care setting. Speaking out—especially after years of being unheard—can feel overwhelming. Our team approaches every survivor’s story with compassion, care, and confidentiality. We are committed to supporting you through each step of the legal process with sensitivity, respect, and urgency. Your voice matters, and we’re here to help you seek justice.

Coleman Legal LLP

Solicitors
84 Talbot Street, Dublin 1
D01 YX60

Contact Details

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Fax: (01) 5312727
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.colemanlegalpartners.ie
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