Fears Number Of Sexual Abuse Allegations In Midlands Schools 'Underreported'

Stock Image

Nearly 2,400 allegations around the country were revealed in the report.

There are calls for Church of Ireland schools to be included in a State investigation into historic sexual abuse.

An initial 'scoping' inquiry report looked at 63 allegations of abuse in 17 midlands schools run by religious orders, although the true figure is expected to be higher.

Nationally, the report revealed nearly 2,400 allegations in 308 schools against 884 people between the early 1960s and 90s. 

Founder of One in Four, Colm O'Gorman, says any statutory inquiry should include all State-funded schools:

Clinical Director at One in Four, Dr. Julie Brown, says the figures are unsurprising:

The scoping inquiry's report found there were 33 allegations of sexual abuse made against 9 alleged abusers in Westmeath.

They spanned six schools in the county, including an allegation in St Mary's Southhill in Delvin, one of 18 special schools mentioned in the report.

19 allegations involving 15 alleged abusers were reported in Offaly, which were spread out over five schools.

While there were 11 allegations made against seven alleged abusers in six schools in Laois.

The near 2,400 allegations made around the country span a 30-year-period.

Taoiseach, Simon Harris, yesterday said the level of abuse disclosed in the scoping inquiry makes for a harrowing read.

He says there will now be a commission of investigation established:

Victims' groups are calling for a redress scheme to be set up for the survivors of reported historic sexual abuse.

Co-founder of victims' advocacy group Restore Together, Phillip Feddis says it would be a recognition of the harm caused:

If you feel affected by the contents of the article, One in Four provides supports to adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse. They can be contacted on 01 662 4070 or by completing the form at www.oneinfour.ie/contact.

More from Midlands News

Download Our App