Gardaí 'should be prosecuted' for not helping abuse victims

A former Deputy Garda Commissioner has said gardaí who failed children who were being abused by members of the Church should be prosecuted.

Joe Egan said the Murphy Commission report reflects very badly on some members of the force.

The report criticised certain gardaí for failing to properly investigate allegations of clerical abuse prior to 1995.

An examination is already underway by gardaí to determine if charges should be brought against abusers or those involved in covering up the abuse.

Joe Egan said if gardaí failed to carry out their duties properly they should certainly face the letter of the law.