Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 March 2023
915. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will provide an update on the publication of a report concerning historical abuse in an organisation (details supplied). [12764/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Review of the Handling of Past Complaints of Abuse in St John Ambulance Ireland carried out by Dr Geoffrey Shannon, was published on 16th of March 2023.
I welcome the publication of this report while being cognisant of the distress its contents may cause to victims/survivors. I would like to thank the people who participated in the review and acknowledge how difficult it can be to tell others about abuse experienced in childhood.
My Department has been advised that the organisation has made supports available to those affected following the publication of the report. The Department has been informed that these supports will include a helpline /counselling support service which will be available from the date of the report’s publication.
Following the publication of the report, there will be further engagement between my Department and also primarily by Tusla , the Child and Family agency, with the organisation in respect of the report’s findings and the organisation’s proposals regarding Dr Shannon’s recommendations.
Any person who has been impacted by child abuse, whether neglect, physical, sexual or emotional abuse should contact their local social work department. Child abuse is a crime, and should also be reported to An Garda Síochána.
