12 Christian Brothers Convicted Of Child Abuse Since 1975

Only 12 Christian Brothers have been convicted of child sexual abuse crimes between 1975 and today, according to a report by the Catholic Church's child protection watchdog, the National Board for Safeguarding Children in the Catholic Church.

The review said the Church's initial response to the need to report abuse to the authorities was inadequate.

Allegations were made against 325 brothers, 50 of whom are still alive.

870 complaints of abuse were made in the 38-year period, all of which have been reported to authorities.

The inspection board said one of the Christian Brothers was returned to ministry after an allegation. Only 12 brothers were convicted of offences against children.

"The number of convictions by the courts, compared to the numbers accused of child abuse, is significantly small," the report said.

Between 1931 and 1997, Christian Brothers received 92 allegations of abuse. From 1998 to the present, the organisation has received 794 allegations.

An examination into the diocese of Down and Connor said the 14 allegations since the appointment of Bishop Noel Treanor five years ago had been properly managed.

The diocese was singled out as an example to be set for the rest of the Church, adding its guidance on whistle-blowing was something the reviewers had not encountered elsewhere.

(IT/CD)