Church covers up savage crimes

FOR more than 30 years survivors of clerical sex abuse have been attending rape crisis centres the length and breadth of Ireland.

Many told their stories for the very first time to a rape crisis counsellor and, sadly, many were actually believed for the very first time in a rape crisis centre.

In some ways the Murphy report on the Dublin archdiocese is another day of vindication for survivors who have been dismissed, ignored, ridiculed and condemned as liars by the very institution which condoned and encouraged their brutalisation. This is clear, well-researched evidence which shows just how devious, manipulative and cunning sex offenders are capable of being.

Abusive clergy had the additional advantage of the backing of the Catholic Church – a church which demonstrated time and time again a willingness, indeed an eagerness, to cover up the most savage crimes.

Today I am overwhelmed with sadness. I am hoping anger will follow.

Ingrid Wallace

Rape Crisis Midwest

Punch’s Cross

Limerick