‘Abuse victims must be supported in efforts for truth’ – Hazzard
Sinn Féin MPs Chris Hazzard and Mickey Brady have said today that victims of abuse inflicted by Catholic priest Malachy Finnegan must be supported in their efforts to get to the truth about the failure of the authorities to protect vulnerable children.
Speaking to Newry Times, Chris Hazzard said, “The abuses inflicted by Malachy Finnegan on vulnerable children over many years are reprehensible acts which have left the entire community in shock.
“The victims have highlighted a systemic failure of the authorities to exercise a duty of care and protect vulnerable children.
“I am advising victims of this awful abuse to go to the Police Ombudsman to ask his office to investigate failings in the police inquiries into the activities of this serial abuser.
“The Catholic Church has a responsibility to provide any and all information it possesses on the activities of Malachy Finnegan to both the police and Police Ombudsman’s inquiries.
“This information must include details of the Church’s response when it first became aware of the activities of Malachy Finnegan.”
“The PSNI has a responsibility to investigate claims that this abuse was covered up, enabling Malachy Finnegan to continue to abuse children,” he added.
Newry & Armagh MP Mickey Brady stated, “The victims of Malachy Finnegan must be supported in their efforts to get to the truth about the failure of the authorities to protect vulnerable children.
“And it is vitally important that anyone coming forward with new information on this vile abuse is supported by the relevant statutory bodies both in justice and those tasked with dealing with the deep hurt and trauma caused by this abuser.”
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