Ryan calls for inquiry into Curragh sex abuse
Sinn Féin TD for South Kildare has called for the establishment of an inquiry into sex abuse in the Curragh Camp.
A whistleblower has contacted the Defence Minister with details of sexual abuse, some involving children, along with the Taoiseach, the Secretary General of the Department of Defence and a number of Government TD’s, and has yet to receive a satisfactory response. He then contacted me and the details of the complaints are horrific.
I asked a Parliamentary Question of the Minister for Defence to see if he will establish an inquiry into allegations of systemic sexual abuse and the covering up of sexual abuse in the Curragh Camp. The Ministers reply left a lot to be desired. He stated that the question is non-specific to the work of his Department. He also said that in so far as it relates to his policy brief or functions, any person having any knowledge of possible criminal activity should report it to An Garda Síochána who are the proper authority to investigate such matters.
I am urging anyone who has knowledge of abuse in the Curragh Camp or the wider Curragh area to contact their local Garda station. The perpetrators have been sheltered for too long. My office will work to assist the victims in telling their story and to finally get justice.
For Written Answer on : 25/02/2021
Question Number(s): 146 Question Reference(s): 10608/21
Department: Defence
Asked by: Patricia Ryan T.D.
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QUESTION
To ask the Minister for Defence if he will establish an inquiry into allegations of systemic sexual abuse and the covering up of sexual abuse in the Curragh Camp; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
REPLY
This question is non specific to the work of my Department. In so far as it relates to my policy brief or my functions, any person having any knowledge of possible criminal activity should report it to an Garda Síochána who are the proper authority to investigate such matters.