Members of the public who believe they were victims of historical sexual abuse in schools run by religious orders should report it for investigation, the Gardaí have said.
The news comes just after Education Minister Norma Foley announced an investigation this week into instances of abuse in schools run by religious orders between 1927 and 2013 in Ireland.
"The level of abuse is shocking": A visibly emotional Education Minister Norma Foley tears up as she announces an investigation into instances of abuse in schools run by religious orders between 1927 and 2013 in Ireland. pic.twitter.com/HmqLTlb9OM
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“An Garda Síochána is appealing to anyone who wishes to report a crime relating to Historical Sexual Abuse in Day and Boarding Schools Run by Religious Orders,” Gardaí said in a statement, adding that they could be contacted by phone, email, or by calling one’s local Garda station.
“Anyone contacting An Garda Síochána on such matters will receive personal contact as soon as is practicable.
“An Garda Síochána is inviting anyone who believes they were the victim of a criminal act relating to Historical Sexual Abuse in Day and Boarding Schools run by Religious Orders, to please come forward and report this.”
The Gardaí said that they were aware of “the profound impact on the lives of those who were subject to such abuse, many of whom who may only be disclosing this information for the first time.”
“An Garda Síochána will deal with any matters reported by complainants in a sensitive manner and will, where possible, progress matters through investigation,” they added.
However, they stressed that some cases were so old it would not be possible to investigate some details, such as in instances where the accused is dead.
“While it is our responsibility to effectively deal with all complaints and information received, there be limitations as to the action we can take in some cases due to matters such as the unavailability of evidence over time or suspects and/or witnesses being deceased,” they said.
“Where these factors are present, An Garda Síochána will diligently explain such limitations to complainants.
“The Garda National Protective Service Bureau will maintain oversight of these investigations which will be investigated by specially trained Gardaí attached to Divisional Protective Service Units in every Garda Division nationwide.
“An Garda Síochána is also appealing to anyone who may have information, including as a witness, relating to crimes of Historical Sexual Abuse in Day and Boarding Schools run by Religious Orders, to make contact with them so that such crimes can be investigated.”
The Gardaí added: “A Garda Spokesperson is not available at this time.”