Historical Sexual Abuse in Schools

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:

1. 2,395 allegations of historical sexual abuse.
2. Involving 884 alleged abusers.
3. 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:
👉 View list of schools named in abuse allegations (Irish Times summary)
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:

1. Sexual abuse in schools.
2. Sexual abuse in day and boarding schools.
3. Clerical abuse.
4. Psychological trauma and long-term impact.

We can assist survivors in:

1. Understanding redress or legal action options and support throughout.
2. 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:

1. HSE National Counselling Service.
2. One in Four.
3. Dublin Rape Crisis Centre.
4. Psychological counselling and trauma support networks.

Our team can also refer you to the appropriate service if needed.

Support groups

Several organisations in Ireland provide support and assistance to survivors of sexual abuse. Some of the most notable include:

• 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 counselling, therapy, and support groups. They also offer 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 counselling and therapy services to adults who have been affected by childhood sexual abuse. They also run a helpline and have a website with 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.

These are just a few examples of the organisations that exist in Ireland to support survivors of sexual abuse. Finding the one that best suits your needs is essential, as each organisation may have different services and focus. It’s also worth noting that there are many other sources of support that you can turn to, including counselling and therapy services, self-help groups, and legal services. You may also seek support from your GP or other medical professionals. Lastly, it’s essential to understand that healing can be a long process, and each person will have their own pace and way of dealing with the trauma. You must be patient and compassionate with yourself and prioritise self-care throughout the process.

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.

Learn more about the Commission

To read the full government information on the investigation, including updates and future announcements, visit: 🔗 Gov.ie – Commission of Investigation into the handling of historical child sexual abuse in schools.

Frequently asked questions

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.

6. Where can I find the list of affected schools?

A summary list is available here.

7. Where can I find official updates on the Commission?

You can visit the gov.ie information hub.

Our team