Public Inquiry Into Sex Abuse Launched

A full public enquiry into historical sex abuse in Scotland is set to be launched in 2015 and will examine historical sexual allegations regarding children. The plans, which were announced by the Scottish Government in late December, will begin after April following meetings and consultations with victims of historical sexual abuse in Scotland.

Seek the Truth and Prevent Further Cases

The inquiry will look to seek the truth regarding historical sexual abuse claims following claims regarding child care homes and other institutions, some run by the Roman Catholic Church. The move to have the inquiry has been greeted by all parties. The inquiry is seen as a way to find justice for those who reported abuse in the past and also to learn from the mistakes of the past to prevent future sexual abuse cases.

Angela Constance revealed that the appointments for the inquiry would be confirmed by the end of April, once they had met with victims.In a statement to Parliament when announcing the inquiry she said: "This Parliament must always be on the side of victims of abuse.

“We must have the truth of what happened to them and how those organisations and individuals into whose care the children were entrusted, failed them so catastrophically.

“To ensure justice is done, I can tell this chamber that where crimes are exposed, the full force of the law will be available to bring perpetrators to account.

"I sincerely hope the public inquiry will provide just such an opportunity for them. And as a society we have an opportunity to confront the mistakes of our past and to learn from them.“

"Needs a Public Inquiry”

Frank Docherty, the founder and honorary chairman of Incas (In-care Abuse Survivors), said: "We've waited 15 years and what we want is a full public inquiry into all the abuse, in all the institutions in Scotland."

Vice chairman Frank McCue of Incas, who was a victim of abuse, said: "The length of time these people have been waiting is ridiculous, a blind man could see that this needs a public inquiry and they keep putting out reports and excuses and it's just not good enough."

He added: "My main thing is to get justice for all these kids, name and shame every institution, every organisation that ran them and I don't care who they are - religious or otherwise."

The move against childcare institutions as well as the Catholic church came as the Catholic church removed three members from their post due to sexual allegations with 15 historical allegations being made against the clergy in 2013.

“Transparency of the Church”

A spokesman for the Church said: “The Catholic Church in Scotland seeks to safeguard the welfare of people of all ages who are involved in whatever capacity with the church and its ­organisations.

“The publication of this audit is an example of the commitment to transparency and openness made previously by Scotland’s Catholic bishops."

The Centre of Excellence for Looked After Children in Scotland (CELCIS) will assist the Scottish Government in the inquiry by providing expert advice and support for the victims.

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