Catholic representative body is ‘deeply sorry’ for abuse in religious schools

The representative body for Catholic orders across Ireland said it is “deeply sorry” that victims experienced abuse in religious-run schools.

The Association of Leaders of Missionaries and Religious in Ireland (AMRI) said it “welcomes” the publication of the Scoping Inquiry Report into historical sexual abuse in Catholic-run schools from 1927 to April 2023.

The report reviewed allegations of historical child sexual abuse, made against religious, lay staff, and clergy.

In a statement, a spokesperson for AMRI said: “We acknowledge the courage and bravery of the victims and survivors.

“We are deeply sorry that they experienced abuse in religious-run schools.

“We are acutely aware that sharing personal, sensitive, and traumatic experiences can cause additional pain and suffering.

“We recognise that we can never know the depth of the pain and suffering survivors have endured and continue to endure.

“AMRI actively worked with those of its members who are involved in running schools to facilitate the fullest cooperation in this Inquiry.

“We will carefully examine the recommendations and respond accordingly.

“Religious Orders and Congregations continue to provide access to safeguarding personnel to support victims and survivors.

“A broad range of support is available, including access to funded counselling and therapeutic services (Towards Healing and Towards Peace), pastoral and restorative justice processes.”

It said it encouraged anyone needing support to contact the individual religious orders and congregations to get the help they need.

“It is critical to restate that rigorous child protection structures are in place in all Catholic schools to maximise the safety of every student,” it added.

It was confirmed earlier on Tuesday that a Commission of Investigation is to be established to examine historical sexual abuse claims in day and boarding schools.

The Government-ordered scoping inquiry has revealed almost 2,400 allegations of historical sexual abuse were recorded by 308 schools run by religious orders across Ireland.

The 700-page report, published on Tuesday, said the allegations were made against 884 alleged abusers in day and boarding schools run by 42 religious orders.

The scoping inquiry said it had contacted 73 religious orders that ran or are still running schools in Ireland, with 42 having records of historical sexual abuse allegations.

The report said 17 were special schools, which recorded 590 allegations involving 190 alleged abusers.