John Lahart
Question:281. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the status of the ongoing investigations into an organisation (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [51025/18]
View answerWednesday, 5 December 2018
Questions (281)
Written answers
My officials and I met with representatives of Scouting Ireland on Wednesday, 28 November to discuss concerns about the recent revelations of 71 alleged abusers and 108 alleged victims having been identified. My officials and I discussed with the Scouting Ireland representatives the steps they are taking to ensure that all alleged abuse victims who have already come forward are being properly supported and counselled and that the same level of support will be made available to any further victims that may come forward.
Scouting Ireland confirmed that there have been 80 calls to the confidential helpline from people identifying as victims. I have been reassured by the representatives that the historic review is continuing and that all allegations found within the historic files or subsequently brought to the attention of Scouting Ireland will be immediately referred to Tusla and to the Gardaí (or any other relevant police authority). I expect to receive a verified update on the number of alleged victims and alleged perpetrators in mid-December.
A confidential Freephone helpline has been put in place for any other victims to make contact. That number is 1800 221199. The number is manned 9am to 8pm Monday to Friday and 10am to 6pm Saturday and Sunday. Tusla has also put a confidential helpline in place, 1800 805665 and this is manned 9am to 4pm.