Social workers concerned document tips the balance of rights in favour of sex abuse accused

A draft document from Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, outlining new Policy and Procedures for Responding to Allegations of Child Abuse and Neglect, has social workers up in arms, not least because of a proviso that could see abusers cross-examine their victims.

In today’s Irish Examiner, six concerned social workers dissect the draft document, which they feel will compromise them ethically, and may discourage victims of abuse from coming forward.

They spoke to Catherine Shanahan on condition of anonymity.