Calls for 'urgent' inquiry into historic school abuse to begin as soon as possible

Government's report into sexual abuse at religious-run boarding and day schools was prompted by revelations of systemic abuse by the Spiritan order at Blackrock College in Dublin.

A formal inquiry into abuse in schools and institutions needs to take place as quickly as possible, or it may be too late for victims and survivors, the Special Rapporteur on Child Protection has said.

It comes as Tuesday saw the publication of the Government's long-awaited report into sexual abuse at religious-run boarding and day schools. The report itself was prompted by revelations of systemic abuse by the Spiritan order at Blackrock College in Dublin.