Gardaí receive over 160 reports of historical sexual abuse at religious schools

An Garda Síochána announced on Saturday that they had already received more than 160 contacts regarding sexual abuse at religious schools since launching their appeal for information from the public on Wednesday. The Gardaí’s renewed focus on sexual abuse at religious schools comes in the wake of the publication early last week of the Scoping Inquiry commissioned by the Government. The report investigated the extent of sexual abuse at religious schools across the country. The Inquiry received just under 3,000 claims of sexual abuse at religious schools. 884 abusers across 308 religious schools allegedly carried out the assaults. The earliest allegation dates to 1927, with the most recent in 2013.

Gardaí appeal for information

On September 4, the Gardaí urged anyone aware of an incident of abuse at religious schools to contact them. While the appeal was made in the context of sexual abuse at religious schools, the Gardaí welcome and encourage reports of historical sexual abuse, no matter where they occurred.

How Gardaí are responding to reports

The Gardaí are now working to respond directly to each person who has come forward regarding sexual abuse at religious schools. The Sexual Crime Management Unit at the GNPSB has been tasked with coordinating the campaign. Assuring the public that they are aware of “the profound impact that sexual abuse has on the lives of each individual who is now coming forward”, they have stated that the undertaking is a “very sensitive process.” Most of those who have contacted have never shared their experience with An Garda Síochana.

Investigation process

Once initial contact has been made, a dedicated gardaí will be assigned to investigate each claim of sexual abuse at religious schools. These gardaí are affiliated with the Divisional Protective Service Units, which are located across various Garda Divisions, and have received specialised training for crimes of this nature. Survivors of sexual abuse at religious schools have also been assured that they will be supported throughout the process, and An Garda Síochána will provide resources to this end.

Senior Gardaí official comments

Commenting on the results of the Inquiry into sexual abuse at religious schools, Colm Noonan, Detective Chief Superintendent of Garda National Protective Services Bureau, said, “These crimes are insidious and have a lifelong effect on those who are subject to this abuse.” He emphasised that, although their current campaign is focused on sexual abuse at religious schools, anybody who wants to come forward regarding any form of sexual abuse will be supported by An Garda Síochana.

Victim-focused approach

He explained the process will be victim-focused, stating, “An Garda Síochána will listen and will assist in progressing their complaint at the pace and to the extent that the person wants.” He also stressed that privacy is a top priority and that all contact will be confidential. In a message to victims of sexual abuse at religious schools, Det Chief Supt Noonan stated: “Any person who has not spoken about being the victim of sexual abuse, I would say the evidence in the Scoping Inquiry and the, so far, over 160 contacts made to An Garda Síochána show that you are not alone, you did nothing wrong and that if you want to speak, your voice will be heard.” “I once again appeal to any person who believes they are the victim of a criminal act relating to sexual abuse at religious schools to please come forward and report this to An Garda Síochána,” he added.

Investigation limitations and realistic expectations

An Garda Síochána are working to respond directly to each allegation of sexual abuse at religious schools as quickly as possible. “While it is our responsibility to deal with all complaints and information received effectively, there may be limitations as to the action we can take in some cases due to matters such as the unavailability of evidence over time or suspects and/or witnesses being deceased” they explained regarding the anticipated scope of each investigation into sexual abuse at religious schools. However, they have emphasised that any such limitations will be communicated to those who come forward with a complaint.

Our team has experience dealing with cases involving sexual abuse at religious schools and can help you seek justice. If you are a survivor of sexual abuse at religious schools, please don’t hesitate to contact us for confidential advice. Free phone 1800-844-104 or email us at [email protected]