Adams abuse case - Martin right to raise issue

Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin had not only every right but also the responsibility to raise the issue about Sinn Féin allegedly dealing with cases of sexual abuse internally, instead of reporting such allegations to the proper civil authorities.

It is, indeed, a sign of the times that he actually accused Sinn Féin of behaving like the Catholic Church on this issue.

In dealing with paedophile abuse, it is important people should not scapegoat members of the family of the abuser, because they are often victims also. Mr Martin raised questions about the way Liam Adams was allowed to work with children, long after his brother became aware he had been abusing his own daughter.