The Report of the Scoping Inquiry into Historical Sexual Abuse in Day and Boarding Schools Run by Religious Orders was published in 2024.
The principal recommendation of the Report, for the establishment of a Commission of Investigation, was accepted by Government and Mr Justice Michael MacGrath was appointed as the Chair of the Commission with effect from 1 October 2025.
The Report of the Scoping Inquiry also recognised the significance of redress for survivors, many of whom told the Scoping Inquiry’s Survivor Engagement process that they viewed it as a measure of accountability for those who ran schools where child sexual abuse occurred. The Scoping Inquiry recommended that consideration be given by the Government to establishing a redress scheme and that it consult with the orders on contributions to any such scheme.
The report of the Inter-Departmental Group (IDG), established to advise Government on the recommendations of the Scoping Inquiry, was considered by Government and published on 8th July 2025. The IDG was cognisant of the views of survivors in relation to redress as a measure of accountability. It recognised that consideration of a redress scheme may have far-reaching implications and advised that further detailed work is required to ensure that Government is fully informed in any decision it may take.
Government accepted this advice and the IDG has commenced this further work to examine the mechanisms that may be brought to bear so that those responsible for schools where historical sexual abuse happened meet their obligations to survivors.
The work of the IDG is entirely separate from the work of the Commission, which does not have a role in relation to redress. The IDG aims to complete its work within 18 months and will make a report to the Minister, based on which Government will give consideration to establishing a redress scheme and any related legislative or administrative measures required.
