The significance of the Commission of Investigation Report into the Diocese of Cloyne is the contemporary nature of the abuse it documents and the failure of the Catholic Church in the Diocese of Cloyne to report a single case to the health authorities between 1996 and 2008.<\/p>\n
The pain of the experiences of the victims is unimaginable for the vast majority of us. Their courage and bravery is exceptional.<\/p>\n
I reiterate my view that it is completely unacceptable that any institution or organisation put corporate reputation ahead of children\u2019s best interests and that the State has responsibility to ensure that child protection is paramount.<\/p>\n
As with previous reports, we witness more examples in today\u2019s report of the placing of institutional loyalty ahead of the best interests of children. The burden of responsibility for reporting abuse should not lie with children. The importance of those in positions of authority referring child protection concerns stems not only from concern for that individual child but for the protection of other children more generally.<\/p>\n
However, I am encouraged by the Ministers for Justice and for Children response to the Commission\u2019s report. As Ombudsman for Children I am tasked with promoting and monitoring children\u2019s rights and welfare in Ireland, this includes ensuring that the State lives up to its responsibility to provide a robust and effective child protection system. My statutory powers include to give advice to Ministers on legislative change affecting children. I have already engaged with the Minister for Children and I have committed to exercising my statutory powers to provide independent advice on the development of a strong legislative and policy framework to give genuine effect to the commitment articulated today.<\/p>\n
This report and the difficulties faced by the many thousands of children who have come to my attention, strengthen my resolve to promote a culture where children\u2019s inherent value and dignity is respected.<\/p>\n
ENDS<\/strong><\/p>\nNote to Editors:<\/strong><\/h2>\n