Report highlights lack of model for treating abusers

The National Association for the Treatment of Abusers says children are being put at serious risk due to the lack of a national model for the treatment of sex abusers.

The warning is contained in a report due to be published by Children's Minister Barry Andrews today.

The report was commissioned by the National Association for the Treatment of Abusers in response to the clerical child sex abuse scandal in the diocese of Ferns.

It says the absence of a national model for treating offenders is putting children at risk.

It also highlights significant gaps in collaboration and information-sharing between groups dealing with the issue and says that, due to a lack of a standardised approach, assessment reports submitted to the Child Protection Services and the courts are inconsistent.

The research says this is particularly dangerous because decisions concerning the protection of children are influenced by these reports.