Irish Government Approves Commission Investigating 2,300 Historical School Abuse Allegations

The Irish government has approved the establishment of a Commission of Investigation into historical sexual abuse allegations in day and boarding schools across the Republic of Ireland, appointing Judge Mr Justice Michael MacGrath to chair the inquiry. More than 2,000 allegations involving 884 abusers have been reported, spanning over 300 schools and 42 religious orders, with the investigation covering abuse between 1927 and 2013. The commission will examine the handling of sexual abuse in both religious and non-religious schools and will be supported by additional commissioners focusing on different aspects, including a survivor engagement forum. Education Minister Helen McEntee emphasized the need for accountability and confirmed ongoing work on a redress scheme for victims, which would be funded by religious orders and others responsible. The commission is mandated to publish its report within five years, with progress reviews planned along the way. Advocacy groups hope the investigation will expose failures that allowed abuse to continue and help prevent future cases.