‘Survivors have already waited decades’: school abuse inquiry must deliver answers, says solicitor

Ireland’s inquiry into the handling of historical child sexual abuse in schools must give survivors answers about who knew, how concerns were handled and whether other children could have been protected, solicitor David Harrington has said.

His comments come as the Commission of Investigation into the Handling of Historical Child Sexual Abuse in Schools invites survivors and others with relevant information to complete a public survey, launched on 5 October.[1]

Harrington, a partner at Harringtons LLP who specialises in litigation arising from historical sexual abuse claims, has represented individuals affected by abuse in cases concerning Spiritan schools and Terenure College.

“For many survivors, the unanswered question is not simply how the abuse happened, but what happened when somebody raised a concern. Who was told, what did they do, and could other children have been protected?”

The commission will examine institutional responses to concerns and complaints relating to abuse between 1927 and 2013. Its remit covers all types of schools and relevant responses by the Department of Education, An Garda Síochána, the HSE and its predecessor and successor bodies.[2]

That places the handling of warnings at the centre of the investigation: whether concerns were ignored or concealed, and whether action was taken to protect children.

An inquiry is not a compensation process

The commission will not determine whether abuse occurred in individual cases, decide criminal guilt or civil liability, or award compensation.[2]

Harrington said survivors need a clear explanation of that distinction.

“An inquiry can examine institutional failures, but survivors also need clarity about their own position. Participation in this process should not be confused with pursuing an individual claim for compensation.”

The investigation will examine selected cases rather than every individual experience. The commission says it will choose cases with sufficient witness and documentary evidence to support reliable findings and illuminate wider failures. Its work is to be completed within five years.[2]

For Harrington, how that selection is explained will be an important test of the process.

“The selection of cases will be crucial. A survivor whose experience is not selected must not be left feeling that it matters less. The commission needs to explain clearly how every contribution will inform its work.”

What taking part involves

The survey seeks initial information to help identify patterns and guide the investigation. Submitting a response does not guarantee that the individual case will be investigated.[3]

It is open to survivors, people with relevant knowledge and, in specified circumstances, family members acting for someone who has died or cannot be supported to participate themselves.

Participation is voluntary, but the survey is not anonymous: names and contact information are required. Respondents can indicate that they do not want follow-up contact.

An online version is available, alongside paper copies on request and supported appointments by phone or video.[3]

The commission has powers to compel evidence and documents, but says it seeks survivors’ cooperation voluntarily and does not intend to compel them to participate.[2]

Harrington said the eventual measure of success must extend beyond the production of findings.

“Survivors have already waited decades. The measure of this inquiry will be whether it produces clear answers about responsibility and meaningful action—not simply another report.”

Participation information: The commission’s survey page explains eligibility, privacy and the available ways to take part.

Originally published in The Gauge on 10 October 2026. Republished by Harringtons LLP.