Children and Youth Affairs Committee calls alleged historical abuse cases in Scouting Ireland disturbing

“Committee members have unanimously expressed their dismay and shock that the independent safeguarding official, Ian Elliott, has uncovered historic abuse cases involving at least 71 alleged sex offenders and 108 alleged victims,” Deputy Farrell said.

“This information revealed today to the Committee significantly broadens and deepens the critical context as we address the need for root-and-branch reform within Scouting Ireland,” he said. “To be told that these previously undisclosed cases within Scouting Ireland files date from the 1960s to 1980s, and do not involve current staff or volunteers, provides cold comfort.

“Mr. Elliott has informed the Committee that the number of documented cases is expected to rise considerably as he continues his audit of Scouting Ireland files,” Deputy Farrell said. “The Committee will carefully weigh today’s assurances from Scouting Ireland leaders that all is being done now to build strong child safeguarding policies within their institution.”