Dr. John Lawlor:

I echo the caution provided by the Chair to the committee at the beginning of the meeting. Scouting Ireland cannot discuss individual cases. It is not appropriate to do so. We are extremely conscious of the confidentiality of those involved. Where disclosure has been made to Scouting Ireland, the individual making such a disclosure has done so on the understanding that the information they provided will be treated confidentially. It is essential that that trust is not breached. Additionally, the discussion of an individual case in a public forum has the potential unintentionally to identify an individual who has made a disclosure that could result in further trauma for the person. Scouting Ireland is also conscious that to discuss individual cases in a public forum has the potential to jeopardise inquiries being made by State agencies such as An Garda Síochána or Tusla, the Child and Family Agency.

Scouting Ireland is aware that individuals have been named in the media. What can be said in respect of that is that all disclosures made to the child protection and safeguarding personnel in Scouting Ireland have been, and were, reported to State agencies. In all cases where it was appropriate or recommended that a person would be removed, that was actioned. I hope that answers Deputy Rabbitte's question.