Long-awaited report is a damning indictment of organisation’s failure to protect children
The findings of a report into child sexual abuse within St John Ambulance have been described as devastating by Social Democrats TD Jennifer Whitmore.
Deputy Whitmore, who is the party’s spokesperson on Children, said:
“Dr Geoffey Shannon’s report has been a long time coming and this is an eagerly awaited but highly emotional day for survivors such as Mick Finnegan. It is only through their perseverance and campaigning that the truth about this organisation’s litany of failings can now be exposed for all to see.
“The report will make for harrowing reading and is a damning indictment of the pervasive culture within St John Ambulance that seemingly put fear of litigation and the protection of its reputation before the welfare of innocent children.
“Given the serious nature of the historical abuse that occurred, it is staggering to learn that Dr Shannon’s report also identifies gaps in the organisation’s existing child protection policies.
“It is clear that nothing less than complete root and branch reform of St John Ambulance is now required to ensure that proper child safeguarding procedures are put in place for the future.”
March 16, 2023