Historical Abuse in Ireland
Having experienced any form of historical abuse can leave an individual feeling distressed. This is particularly evident in cases involving clergy sexual abuse, scouting Ireland sexual abuse and institutional abuse, where perpetrators used their influence and authority to take advantage of children left in their care. These offences ranged from physical, emotional, and sexual abuse against the most vulnerable, which took place during the person’s youth.
Historical Abuse in Ireland – Recent cases
(I) Sexual Abuse at Blackrock College
Blackrock college was founded in 1860 by the Holy Ghost Fathers, now known as The Spiritan Order
The experiences of those who suffered abuse at the hand of those in authority are coming forward with their stories. Two brothers who suffered sexual abuse at the hands of a teacher and brother of the Spiritans, also known as the Holy Ghost fathers, recently spoke of the sexual abuse that they endured while students at Blackrock College.
This involved a period of grooming while attending swimming lessons on the ground of the College, which escalated into both boys suffering multiple instances of sexual abuse at the hand of the Brother.
The experiences of those who suffered abuse at the hand of those in authority are coming forward with their stories. Such as two brothers who suffered sexual abuse at the hands of a teacher and brother of the Spiritans, also known as the Holy Ghost fathers, while students at Blackrock College.
This involved a period of grooming while attending swimming lessons on the ground of the College, which escalated into both boys suffering multiple instances of sexual abuse at the hand of the brother.
There have been multiple accusations made against the Brothers, with a total of over 5 million euros being paid out by the Spiritans in settlement claims and towards abuse and support services.
There has been a general apology issued by the Spiritans after backlash from an audit released the severity of the child abuse ring within the order.
Possibly affected schools
- Blackrock College – Blackrock, Dublin.
- Rockwell College – Cashel.
- St Mary’s College – Rathmines, Dublin.
- St Michael’s College – Dublin.
- Templeogue College – Templeogue, Dublin
(II) Scouting Ireland Abuse
Cases involving claims of historical sexual abuse within Scouting Ireland have attracted significant public attention in Ireland in recent years. The cases centre on allegations of sexual abuse of children within the scouting movement in Ireland, with multiple individuals being accused of perpetrating such abuse over a period of several decades.
As a result of these allegations, Scouting Ireland has faced significant scrutiny and criticism for its handling of child protection issues, and has undergone a major overhaul of its governance and safeguarding policies. The cases have also highlighted broader issues around child protection in Ireland and the need for all youth organisations to have robust and effective safeguarding measures in place to protect young people from abuse and harm.
(III) St John Ambulance Abuse
St John Ambulance Ireland has been embroiled in a scandal relating to allegations of historical sexual abuse of children within the organisation. The allegations, which date back several decades, have led to calls for greater accountability and transparency from St John Ambulance Ireland, as well as an increased focus on safeguarding measures within the organisation.
The cases have highlighted the importance of safeguarding policies and procedures in all organisations that work with children and vulnerable adults, and has raised concerns about the prevalence of historical abuse within Ireland’s institutions. St John Ambulance Ireland has apologised for the harm caused to victims and has committed to taking steps to prevent such abuse from happening in the future.
Support Groups
If you or someone you care about has suffered sexual abuse, there are various support organisations you can contact:
- Rape Crisis Network Ireland (RCNI) is a national organisation that provides support, information, and advocacy to survivors of sexual violence and abuse. They also work to raise awareness about sexual violence and to promote social change. Visit Site
- Dublin Rape Crisis Centre (DRCC) provides a range of services for survivors of rape, sexual assault, and childhood sexual abuse, including counseling, therapy, and support groups. They also provide a helpline service that is available to anyone who has been affected by sexual violence. Visit Site
- One in Four is an organisation that provides counseling and therapy services to adults who have been affected by childhood sexual abuse. They also run a helpline and have a website full of resources and information. Visit Site
- The ISPCC is the largest child protection charity in Ireland, providing support and help to children who have suffered abuse of any kind. Visit Site
- The HSE has a dedicated service, the Sexual Assault Treatment Unit, that provides a range of services, including medical treatment and forensic examination, to survivors of sexual abuse.
How can Coleman Legal help
Our team has experience in dealing with cases involving historic abuse and can help you to seek justice. If you call our office or complete an online form, we can organise a consultation to discuss your case in detail.
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Clodagh Magennis
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