Christian Brothers apologise over abuse case

A religious order issued a public apology tonight after one of its members was found guilty of sexual abuse.

Christian Brother Maurice Tobin (aged 71) was sentenced to 12 years in jail at Galway Circuit Court for sexually abusing 25 boys at the Letterfrack Industrial School, Co Galway between 1959 and 1974.

Tobin, from Dublin, who worked in the kitchens of the school and on the farm, pleaded guilty to 23 cases of indecent assault and two of buggery.

The Christian Brothers, who run a number of schools, issued a statement expressing “deep regret” for the hurt and pain caused to those who were abused by Brother Tobin.

“We are greatly saddened by his actions and offer our sincere apologies to those who were abused and to their families,” it said.

“We recognise the trauma and distress that they have suffered and the betrayal of trust involved.

“The Christian Brothers pledge to continue to work towards healing and reconciliation.”

Four years of his sentence was suspended by Judge Harvey Kenny, who took into account the fact that Tobin had pleaded guilty, his age and his state of health.