GARDAI´ are investigating allegations of widespread sex abuse by members of a religious order at a former industrial school in Clonmel. Detectives are investigating allegations of abuse by members of the Institute of Charity (Rosminians) at the former Ferryhouse Industrial School in Clonmel from the 1960s to 1980s.
The school now operates as a young offenders institution under the name St Joseph's Special School, Ferryhouse, Clonmel. However, the order stressed yesterday there are no allegations against current staff members. The victims were all young teenagers at the time of the alleged abuse. Some former students have sought help from the Organisation for Recovery from Institutional Abuse. Its founder, Josephine Baker, yesterday appealed for other victims to contact her on (01) 8252353.
"I have spoken to people from Clonmel and the pattern of abuse seems to fit that found in other places like Artane. I am appealing for more people to come forward if they feel they can help because it is always better in terms of corroboration, to have as many statements as possible.''
The level of abuse at the school is unclear but the investigation has been underway for almost a year. Charges are being brought against one individual and further charges are expected against other former staff members.
During the years in question, 156 children were at Ferryhouse in any one year. These children came from poor backgrounds, or from families considered dysfunctional. Some would have been referred to Ferryhouse from orphanages, while others would have come there by order of the courts. A spokesman for St Joseph's said yesterday: "Our primary concern, at present, is the children in our care. Obviously, we abhor all mistreatment of children. The investigation in question relates to allegations from the past and we are co-operating fully with the gardaí. Lest any distress be caused by this report to the parents of the children attending our school, we confirm the garda investigation does not involve any member of staff here.'' |
