Scientology defectors to address conference in Dublin

Financial exploitation and abuse are two key dangers of scientology, defectors from the belief system will tell a conference in Dublin today.

The religion is popular with several high profile celebrities, and has attracted a number of followers in Ireland in recent years.

Conference organiser Pete Griffiths turned his back on scientology after feeling trapped and exploited. He says those running the group choose a certain type of person to recruit.

"They're looking for people who've got a lot of money (and) a lot of time," he said. "At the very early stages, there's some stuff that's slightly helpful. If it wasn't like that, no one would ever get involved - that's the cheese in the trap, if you like."