Quest for justice can’t be delayed

VICTIMS of child abuse at the hands of Christian Brothers will generally welcome the High Court ruling that the Laffoy Commission can continue its investigation into allegations against its members who are old, incapacitated, untraceable or dead.

However, in his judgment, Mr Justice Henry Abbott made a concession to the congregation by introducing protections to the Commission’s procedures, particularly in the case of accused who are dead.

He has also stressed the need for corroboration of accusations.

The Christian Brothers face over 700 allegations. But the order argued it was contrary to fair procedure to hear those against people either too old or infirm to give instructions or untraceable or deceased.

Effectively, that would prevent the naming of a considerable number of abusers.

If, as expected, yesterday’s judgment is appealed to the Supreme Court, it will further delay the work of the Commission, formerly chaired by Ms Justice Mary Laffoy.

Similar charges were stonewalled by the Christian Brothers in Canada and Australia. In the name of Christianity, it is vital to accelerate Ireland’s quest for justice on behalf of children whose trust was so cruelly betrayed by members of 18 religious orders in residential institutions.