Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I make it absolutely and emphatically clear that I and my party have fully supported requests by the victims of Bill Kenneally for an independent inquiry and I fully support this motion before the Dáil. I thank the Minister for bringing it to the House. What the victims have gone through is absolutely horrific. I welcome those of them who are in the Gallery this evening. It is totally and utterly unacceptable that the victims were exposed for so long to such appalling emotional, sexual and physical abuse. The bravery and courage of the victims in waiving their anonymity and their perseverance in striving for justice, fairness and truth cannot be underestimated. The toll it has taken on these men, on their parents, families, wives and partners and children is incomprehensible. As a mother, I cannot even imagine the effect of the absolute horror these men endured.

The time has now come for answers. The fact that Bill Kenneally was allowed to abuse children for such a protracted period is an indictment on the State and answers are needed as to how this was allowed to happen. Who knew what and when? The draft terms of reference will investigate all aspects of the case with reference to the Garda, the South Eastern Health Board, Basketball Ireland, clergy and public figures. This is absolutely needed and full transparency and co-operation is essential. These men want to move on with their lives; they want and deserve answers. These men need closure and I hope this commission of inquiry will bring that about. These men have waited far too long.

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