Brave Mervyn

MERVYN Rundle has now spoken publicly about his 18-year ordeal (Irish Examiner, Jan 29).

The Rape Crisis Network Ireland (RCNI) would like to congratulate Mervyn on his honesty, his dignity and his courage in speaking out. Crimes of sexual violence are usually shrouded in secrecy and silence. Abusers often threaten or coerce children into remaining silent. Breaking this silence is a vital part of uncovering the extent of sexual abuse in Ireland and in making perpetrators accountable for their crimes.

In rape crisis centres throughout Ireland counsellors hear survivors of sexual abuse tell their harrowing stories Perhaps other victims will be heartened by Cardinal Connell’s apology and inspired by Mervyn Rundle’s courage Sadly, heart and inspiration are not always enough. Children have been sexually abused by some members of the clergy for many generations and it is only now that we hear apologies and real intent on the clergy’s behalf to take responsibility for these crimes Is this good enough?