Children’s referendum must be first step in systemic change

WHAT happened in Roscommon, in its sickening detail and immediacy, is perhaps even more shocking than the torrent of revelations linking some clergy to sexual crimes against children and is not, it could be argued, unconnected.

Once again the state authorities have abjectly failed children. Professionals reluctant to intervene, not because of the level of subterfuge entered into by the perpetrators, or a lack of legal authority, but some deeper flaw.

Despite all the evidence that they should take a contrary position, it would seem that our legal and social services still defer to the constitutionally exalted institutions of the church and family, rather than place first the protection of our youngest citizens.