Northern Ireland church abuse inquiry announced

The Irish Times
Sept. 29, 2011

A major inquiry into the abuse of children in institutions run by the Catholic Church and the state is to be launched in Northern Ireland, it was announced today.

The Stormont Executive confirmed the investigation will be phased-in over the next two years and will be armed with the power to compel the release of records plus the cooperation of witnesses.

First Minister Peter Robinson and acting deputy First Minister John O’Dowd announced the details of the plan, which follows a study of the issue by a task force set-up last December.

Victims of sexual and physical abuse have recounted harrowing tales of their treatment. The
Northern Ireland government’s plan of action follows a series of inquiries in the Republic which have uncovered shocking evidence of widespread abuse by Catholic clergy.

The Northern Ireland inquiry will require special legislation to provide the statutory powers
needed to investigate historic cases of abuse.

And while it is estimated it could take two years to pass the necessary legal framework, the
Stormont leaders have also announced immediate steps.

Full article at The Irish Times