Gardaí urge victims of religious school abuse to come forward

GARDAÍ are encouraging anyone who wishes to report a crime relating to historical sexual abuse in schools run by religious orders to come forward.

This comes after a comprehensive Scoping Inquiry report, which sent shockwaves throughout Ireland earlier this week, documented over 2,400 allegations of abuse involving 884 alleged abusers across more than 300 schools.

Among the institutions identified, two Donegal schools have been singled out by survivors.

A garda spokesperson said: “An Garda Síochána is fully aware of the profound impact on the lives of those who were subject to such abuse, many of whom who may only be disclosing this information for the first time.

“An Garda Síochána will deal with any matters reported by complainants in a sensitive manner and will, where possible, progress matters through investigation.

“An Garda Síochána is also appealing to anyone who may have information, including as a witness, relating to crimes of Historical Sexual Abuse in Day and Boarding Schools run by Religious Orders, to make contact with them so that such crimes can be investigated.”

Anyone contacting An Garda Síochána on such matters can do so by emailing GNPSB_SCMU@garda.ie, by phoning the Garda Child Sexual Abuse Reporting Line on 1800 555 222 or by calling to your local Garda Station.

Receive quality journalism wherever you are, on any device. Keep up to date from the comfort of your own home with a digital subscription.
Any time | Any place | Anywhere