Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Fiona Doyle showed great courage and bravery in coming forward. The issue of concern, however, is the potential fallout of the case for people who may be very concerned about being brave, coming forward, waiving their right to privacy and opening up to the world about the torment they endured. The House has a clear obligation to act. As I pointed out, the State reneged on its right, responsibility and duty to protect children in its care and in the care of others who were acting on its behalf. An apology has been made in this House and a referendum on children has been passed. Parliament and citizens must now ensure that all those who have been or are being raped and abused have confidence that if they walk into a Garda station or contact a social worker, they will be vindicated and the State will protect their rights and ensure they receive justice in the courts. I am not questioning any individual court case but the effect of court cases can be to set a precedent or damage how we judge ourselves and view crimes in society. Our children need protection.

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