School historical sexual abuse commission launches survey

A new survey has been initiated by the Commission of Investigation into the Handling of Historical Child Sexual Abuse in Schools. This marks the commencement of the group's efforts and serves as the inaugural engagement step. The commission was set up to probe the management of child sexual abuse allegations within educational institutions from 1927 to 2013.

The inquiry stemmed from a preliminary investigation that uncovered abuse allegations and underscored the necessity for an impartial examination. Mr. Michael McGrath was appointed as the commission's director in the previous July.

The survey is aimed at individuals who have had personal experiences or knowledge related to schools, including primary or national, secondary, community, and comprehensive schools, as well as fee-paying and non-fee-paying institutions. Special schools are also encompassed, though industrial and reformatory schools generally fall outside the commission's purview.

Survivors who endured child sexual abuse in a school or in school-related circumstances between 1927 and 2013 are encouraged to participate. Family members can complete the survey on behalf of the deceased or those unable to participate independently. The survey is also open to individuals with pertinent knowledge regarding school-based sexual abuse, including educators, former pupils, and those who witnessed abuse, were aware of concerns, or were involved in reporting them. Even those living overseas are invited to take part.

The survey aims to guide the commission's selection of sample cases for investigation. It will focus on the handling of abuse-related concerns, including potential failures in safeguarding children. The support service for adult survivors of child sexual abuse and their families, One in Four, will offer independent assistance to those participating in the survey or seeking help in doing so.

One in Four has emphasized that reaching out to the organization does not obligate anyone to complete the survey. CEO Deirdre Kenny stated that when abuse occurs within a school setting, and a child is not recognized, heard, or believed, it can profoundly harm their trust in the adults and institutions tasked with their protection.

This can make disclosing abuse, even after many years, challenging. To that end, people require time, clear instructions, and independent support to determine if participating is the right choice for them. The survey will be accessible on the commission's website from now. For independent participation support, contact One in Four at (01) 611 4654, Monday to Friday, 9 am - 5 pm, or email coi@oneinfour.ie.