Launch of 24-hour sex abuse call line

A 24-hour dedicated phoneline for the reporting of child sexual abuse, both current and historic, is being launched today.

The confidential freephone line, which was recommended by the Garda Inspectorate five years ago, will be operated by the Command and Control Centre at Harcourt Square, which deals with 999 calls.

Trained civilian and garda staff at the centre will refer calls to the Protected Services Bureau for evaluation and investigation.