Government must deliver justice for survivors
Government must deliver justice for survivors - The Labour Party
Labour Leader Ivana Bacik TD has called on Government to urgently implement the recommendations of the South East Independent Commission of Investigation report into the abuse perpetrated by Bill Kenneally, engage directly and respectfully with survivors, and bring forward legislation to strengthen accountability where public bodies and institutions fail to protect children.
Deputy Bacik said:
“Survivors of childhood sexual abuse have already carried an unimaginable burden throughout their lives. The publication of this report is a stark reminder not only of the horrific crimes committed by Bill Kenneally, but also of the repeated failures by institutions that should have protected vulnerable children.
“The findings of the Commission are deeply disturbing. The report is unequivocal in identifying serious failings by senior Gardaí and other institutions in responding to allegations of abuse. It is clear that opportunities to protect children were missed and that those who came forward were too often met with inaction when they deserved support and protection.
“The Taoiseach confirmed today that a State apology will be offered to survivors. That is welcome. However, survivors deserve clarity on when that will take place and how they will be consulted and involved in that process. It is also deeply concerning that survivors were given such a short period to absorb the findings of a substantial report before its publication. We have seen similar mistakes made before, and this Government should have learned from those experiences.
“Again and again, survivors have shown extraordinary courage in coming forward. From Bill Kenneally to Eamon Cooke, from industrial schools to the Blackrock College abuse scandals, each case has exposed profound institutional failures. Yet too often the State’s response has risked retraumatising those affected.
“The report also raises serious questions about the role of institutions beyond the State, including sporting bodies, schools and the Catholic Church. We continue to see religious orders relying on legal structures to avoid full accountability to survivors. That cannot continue.
“Labour is calling on Government to fully implement the recommendations of the Kenneally report, engage directly and respectfully with survivors, progress reforms including misconduct in public office offence, and support Labour’s legislation to strengthen access to justice. Survivors deserve accountability, dignity and action.”