In the wake of the recent scoping report on child sexual abuse in religious-run institutions, Fine Gael Senator Mary Seery Kearney has called for a Citizens’ Assembly on how to respond to the findings.
“The scoping report on child sexual abuse in religious-run schools has opened the floodgates on an equally disturbing issue – the physical and psychological abuse of children in our schools,” she said today.
“Over the past week, I have spoken to countless survivors, particularly men in Ballyfermot, who experienced daily beatings and unimaginable psychological cruelty during their time in school. This abuse has left scars that remain raw to this day.
“While we focus on the sexual abuse suffered by so many, it is important that we do not ignore the stories of physical and emotional torment that children endured.”
The Senator said that “guidelines were flagrantly ignored”, and “children were beaten and humiliated on a daily basis.”
“This went beyond physical punishment – it was a systemic stripping away of dignity and humanity,” she said.
“…A Citizens’ Assembly may be the most appropriate and compassionate way forward. It would provide survivors with a platform to share their stories and ventilate the deep hurt and anger that many still feel.
“It could also guide us toward a national response focused on meaningful restoration and support for survivors.”
She described the issue as “a national wound”, adding: “Our society turned its back on these innocent children, and we owe them a response that acknowledges their suffering.”
“A State apology is essential, but so too is a broader societal reckoning that includes physical and psychological abuse in any redress.”