February 07, 2005

Fast-track inquiry into abuse moves a step closer

IRELAND
One in Four

Liam Reid - Irish Times

The Minister for Justice, Mr McDowell, is to bring proposals to Cabinet in the next month for the first fast-track public inquiry under the new alternative to tribunals which will investigate child sexual abuse by priests in the Archdiocese of Dublin.

The new inquiry, which will be called a commission of investigation, will have similar powers to tribunals to gather evidence. It could involve the investigation of abuse claims and their handling from potentially thousands of victims of sexual abuse.

Much of its work is expected to be carried out behind closed doors however, although it will be able to hold some parts of the inquiry in public.

Posted by kshaw at February 7, 2005 08:10 AM