Ivana Bacik (Dublin Bay South, Labour)

We know St. John Ambulance has paid money in settlements to a survivor who alleges sexual abuse in childhood by a former senior figure in St. John Ambulance. We are aware of further civil cases, and that some have been referred to An Garda. In 2023, the Shannon review confirmed systemic failures in St. John Ambulance from the sixties to the nineties. I note a recent statement from the Minister, Deputy Foley, confirming her Department provided funding for a 12-month period to ensure that all of Dr. Shannon's recommendations, including safeguarding, would be implemented in full. She also confirmed she had no plans to establish a statutory inquiry. That is regrettable. Survivors need transparency, a plan for the implementation of all the recommendations from the Shannon review, and they say they are exhausted by delays and the tone of engagement they have received to date. What is the Taoiseach's view on this, and does he join us in supporting survivors' calls for a full public inquiry?

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