Church abuse inquiry to be launched

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 has been announced.

The Stormont Executive confirmed the probe will be phased-in over the next two years and will be armed with the power to compel the release of records plus the co-operation 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 inquiries in the Irish Republic which have uncovered shocking evidence of widespread abuse by Catholic clergy.

The Northern Ireland probe 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.

Their action plan, which will eventually see an apology issued to victims, includes the creation within around two months of an Advocacy Service to provide counselling and support for victims and survivors, and to help with issues including tackling possible alcohol problems or other dependencies victims may have developed, or helping them to re-connect with their families.

An Acknowledgement Forum will also be set up within four to six months which will provide a private and confidential arena for victims to tell their stories and to have their trauma recognised. 

Any information on potential abusers who may still pose a threat to children will immediately 

be passed to special units of the Police Service of Northern Ireland.

The experts who drew up the phased-in approach to the Northern Ireland Inquiry have said they examined the experience of the Republic of Ireland.

Compensation may be available to victims, but it is understood there will be a focus on funding services which can meet their needs as they come to terms with their experiences.

Source