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A survivors' group representing individuals affected by Child Sexual Abuse at Spiritan schools is urging the congregation to establish a redress scheme by June 1st, 2025.
The advocacy group, Restore Together, emphasises that no survivor should be forced to pursue legal action for justice, as such processes often worsen the trauma for vulnerable victims.
Redress Scheme
While acknowledging the Spiritans' efforts to settle cases with survivors who have gone to court, Restore Together calls for a more consistent and compassionate approach. Many survivors who did not take legal action still deserve financial recognition, and the group is urging the creation of a redress scheme that is accessible to all victims. They are concerned about the "two-tier" system that prioritises survivors who take legal action over those seeking redress through non-litigious means.
Financial Compensation
The group advocates for financial awards equivalent to court settlements and stresses that financial compensation is only one part of the broader restorative justice process. They urge the Spiritans to take full responsibility for the harm caused to vulnerable children under their care and to implement a fair and timely redress scheme, especially as many survivors are in the later stages of life.
The Spiritan Order have already paid €8.8 million in settlements to 125 survivors, but the group calls for more immediate action to prevent further delay. With the Spiritans' significant financial resources, Restore Together believes a comprehensive redress scheme is achievable.
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Further Information
Lavelle Partners act for a number of clients in relation to historic Child Sexual Abuse Cases.
Please contact Avril Scally, Partner or Avril Carroll, Solicitor in our Personal Injury & Medical Negligence Team, in the strictest of confidence, if you would like to discuss a possible case or to pursue a claim for compensation.