The Taoiseach and Minister for Justice must meet with the survivors of convicted paedophile Bill Kenneally and deliver a State apology to those who fought long and hard for justice, according to Social Democrats justice spokesperson Gary Gannon.
Deputy Gannon said:
“At the outset, I want to state that it is outrageous that victims were given less than 24 hours to read and analyse this lengthy report after the Minister failed to meet with them or discuss the report in advance of its publication. This is not a respectful way to treat a group who were failed so drastically by the State.
“The report is a complete vindication of the victims who courageously came forward in their search for truth and fight for accountability, and I commend their bravery.
“The victims of Kenneally’s abuse were failed by the very institutions that should have protected them. If Gardaí had not failed to conduct an appropriate investigation into Bill Kenneally’s actions, children could have been saved from being abused.
“The focus now must be ensuring that these abuses are never allowed to be repeated. The Government must issue a State apology to the victims and implement the recommendations of the report in full at the earliest opportunity, including the creation of a new offence of “misconduct in public office”.
“Transparency and accountability are essential cornerstones of our justice system which have been disregarded on too many occasions throughout our country’s history. The report must serve as a turning point when it comes to policing and safeguarding in Ireland.”
June 10th, 2026