Abuse victims memorial opened in Wicklow

The first ‘‘grove of reflection’’ to commemorate the victims of child abuse in Irish religious and other institutions was opened today in Co Wicklow by junior government minister Seamus Brennan.

The Association for the Healing of Institutional Abuse requested the memorial from the Millennium committee.

The organisation has assisted in counselling more than 1,500 victims of physical, sexual and mental abuse as children in institutions over an extended period dating back many decades.

Many of the cases have led to jail sentences for those who were in charge of or worked at the institutions involved in the allegations.

Dep Brennan said: ‘‘We are proud to unveil the first of the groves of reflection to be dedicated to those who suffered immeasurably in institutions and elsewhere.

‘‘This is an opportunity to salute the bravery of individual victims who were determined to tell their stories and seek justice - and in doing so shone a light into the dark corners of our past and present.

‘‘It is our earnest hope that those who were the victims of this shameful abuse, their families and loved ones, will find peace at the groves, time to reflect and renewed strength and hope for the future.’’

Among those at the ceremony was Christine Buckley, the subject of a television documentary in 1996 about her experiences at the home where she was brought up.

The programme did much to expose the extent of abuse, which has since prompted apologies from the Government and many of the religious organisations involved.

Ms Buckley said today’s event realised a dream for everyone who had been raised in institutions.

She added: ‘‘These special groves will help the healing process and offer a place for quiet reflection for everyone.’’

As well as the grove opened today at Rathdrum, Co Wicklow, others will be established in Co Tipperary, Co Mayo and Co Monaghan.

Each has a wooden seat inscribed: ‘‘This Millennium Grove is devoted to all victims of institutional abuse who have suffered immeasurably. May the future ensure that those most vulnerable will never again endure such pain and deprivation.’’