11 December 2018
By Bryan Smyth
bryan@TheCork.ie
Labour Spokesperson for Children and Youth Affairs, Cork TD Sean Sherlock, has called for a coordinated response to the revelations of over 300 alleged victims of abuse within Scouting Ireland.
Commenting today Deputy Sherlock said:
“These figures released by Minister Zappone of over 300 alleged victims of abuse within Scouting Ireland is devastating, but not surprising. It has always been probable that the number of allegations was understated.
Sean Sherlock TD
“The questions the Minister must not answer are, how are she and the government going to deal with those who have made complaints by way of additional supports. Also, what protocols are being put in place to deal with complainants?
“The Minister must provide more clarity about what happens next. It is not enough for the Minister to outline a numerical list of allegations. People want reassurances that files have been referred to Gardai and Tusla
“It is also important that the Minister outline what engagement has the minister had with the new board on these files aside from receiving a letter. It is a matter of public importance that we also know if there are allegations against current members of Scouting Ireland or are the files all historical files?
“I look forward to the Minister delivering further clarity on these questions and laying out how she intends to move forward.”
