Courts / Ireland / Report
"Door is open" for young woman at centre of "horror story" abuse allegations, judge says
Summary
The High Court heard that an 18-year-old woman, made a ward of court last year, requires ongoing supports following disclosures of alleged sexual abuse by more than 12 males before she was taken into care at age ten. Mr Justice Peter Kelly stated the court's door remains open for her to attend a review in October if her treating team deems it medically appropriate. The judge strongly recommended that a named care unit employee, in whom the woman places strong trust, remain involved in her care if feasible. He also authorised the general solicitor for wards of court to take legal action against the HSE and Child and Family Agency over alleged failures to protect her. Senior counsel Sara Moorhead's opinion described the situation as a "horror story" and an "appalling failure of duty" by State institutions. Criminal proceedings are pending against the woman's mother and maternal grandfather arising from the disclosures. The court was informed of concerns regarding an escalation in self-harming behaviour and the psychiatrist's view that her current psychiatric unit is not a suitable long-term placement. Orders were made to facilitate her gradual transition to a residential care unit providing a range of therapies.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: "Door is open" for young woman at centre of "horror story" abuse allegations, judge says. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision
When:
- 2019-06-24 Publication
Case subjects
Applicant
Places mentioned
- High Court
Topics
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