Issue Date: 16th November 2022
An Garda Síochána has again appealed today to anyone who wishes to report a crime relating to Spiritan Schools and the Spritan Order to contact them.
To support the reporting of such crimes a dedicated email address is in place – GNPSB_SCMU@garda.ie
Anyone contacting An Garda Síochána on such matters will receive personal contact.
An Garda Síochána is fully aware of the profound impact on the lives of those who were the victims of or witnessed sexual, physical and emotional abuse.
An Garda Síochána is inviting anyone who was the victim of such abuse or who has information likely to assist an investigation into such abuse, to please come forward and report this.
For the purpose of reporting to An Garda Síochána, the following options are available:
- By emailing GNPSB_SCMU@garda.ie
- By phoning the Sexual Crime Management Unit on 01-6663430 or 01-6663435
- By phoning the Garda Child Sexual Abuse Reporting Line on 1800 555 222. This is a confidential and free service available 24/7
- Calling to your local Garda Station
An Garda Síochána will deal with any matters reported by complainants in a sensitive manner and will, where possible, progress matters through investigation.
While it is our intention to effectively deal with all complaints and information received, there will be limitations as to the action we can take in some cases due to matters such as the loss of evidence over time or suspects and/or witnesses being deceased. Where these factors are present, An Garda Síochána will diligently explain such limitations to complainants.
The Sexual Crime Management Unit at the Garda National Protective Services Bureau is the central point of contact for referrals on an ongoing basis from Religious Orders throughout the country via Designated Liaison Persons.
An Garda Síochána can confirm that referrals in respect of abuse allegations relating to Spiritan Schools and the Spiritan Order have been previously received through this system.
An Garda Síochána can also confirm that complaints made by individual victims have also previously been received and investigated where appropriate.
Over the last week the Sexual Crime Management Unit has received six contacts form individuals. Further engagement will take place with these six persons to assess their individual case and they will be fully supported.
