Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Members for their contributions. I agree with Deputy Howlin who adverted to our being here in this House once again debating another element of our dark history, having failed to properly respond to child sexual abuse. It has been prevalent throughout society down the decades but has been kept secret and hidden through fear, inactivity and the abuse of power. The commission will look at what the gardaí knew, when they knew it, what they did and whom they told. If necessary, the commission will investigate the responses or actions of a number of identified bodies and persons that have been mentioned.

I am struck by Deputy Cullinane's comments when he spoke of people coming forward now. He mentioned numbers of others who may come forward. I welcome this but it is not the purpose of the commission to investigate the substance of any allegations or complaints. They should be made to An Garda Síochána in the first instance. Anyone who has any information or who wishes to make a complaint which has not been made should do so to An Garda Síochána and not to the commission.

My view, and it has been shared by Deputy O'Callaghan and others, is that it is necessary to establish a commission to investigate and report on the matters of public concern, as set out in the statement of reasons. The commission will be located in accommodation sourced by the Office of Public Works, namely Tom Johnson House in Beggars Bush, Dublin 4. This is where persons will be invited to appear and give evidence before the sole member. A process is under way to identify suitable counsel and legal staff to assist the work of the sole member in the administration of the commission. Based on experience gained from previous commissions of investigation, its cost is estimated to be between €1.3 million and €1.5 million.

7 o’clock

This figure is sanctioned by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. I know that Judge Hickson, those appointed to the commission and my own officials will monitor the budgets closely to ensure that any costs incurred are reasonable and appropriate in all circumstances.

Again I pay tribute to the brave men who, in late 2016, came to the then Tánaiste with their harrowing stories. These men had suffered for almost 30 years but bravely chose to break their silence. They now want the truth about whether action could and should have been taken earlier. It is my sincere hope that the commission can get to the truth of all the issues raised by the victims, which are reflected in the terms of reference before us. It would not be right, or indeed fair, to the organisations or persons who will be subject to the commission's inquiries to prejudge any matter that may come before the sole member, however it is fundamentally important that these allegations of inaction, secrecy and collusion are properly investigated and that, if they are found to be true, those involved are fully exposed. There can be now more hiding of such insidious crimes in our country. I hope the work of the commission and the improvements which I am committed to implementing in respect of the rights of victims in sexual abuse cases can act as a beacon to those living in fear and to those afraid to speak out against their abusers, whether that abuser is a family member, a family friend or a complete stranger. To all of those persons I say that we are here to listen and to assist and help.

The Cabinet has approved and noted the documents before the House today. I ask that Members respect the opinions of the survivors of abuse committed by Bill Kenneally. They have approved these terms of reference as the most expedient and transparent way of getting to the truth of what was known and by whom about the offending, offensive and unacceptable behaviour of Mr. Bill Kenneally in the mid to late 1980s. In conclusion, I ask the House to approve the order to establish the commission of investigation. I thank Members for their support.

See this speech in context