Victims asked to come forward
GARDA COMMISSIONER Fachtna Murphy has directed an examination of the findings of the report of the Commission of Investigation into the Catholic Archdiocese of Dublin on the handling of complaints and investigations by Church and State authorities.
Referring to the ongoing work of the Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Unit, the Commissioner said a substantial investigation was undertaken by the Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Unit in 2002.
'The Commission itself acknowledged that this investigation was an effective, coordinated and comprehensive inquiry. The investigation has resulted in the submission of a number of files to the Director of Public Prosecutions and following his direction, people have appeared before the courts charged with serious offences.
'I am now asking Assistant Commissioner John O'Mahoney to examine the findings of the report relating to the handling of complaints and investigations by both Church and State authorities, to carry out such investigations and inquiries as he deems appropriate and to make a report to me with his recommendations. I will then consult with the Director of Public Prosecutions as to what issues arise in the context of criminal liability.' 'I want to appeal again to individuals who experienced child sexual abuse or who have information about the commission of criminal offences in the context of the report to contact An Garda Síochána,' he said. A dedicated telephone line has been set up to deal with complaints arising from the report. The number is 01 6663066.
