Update from AMRI on  Safeguarding Matters May 2025

The Association of Missionaries and Religious Ireland (AMRI) and its Members are committed to supporting the healing of survivors of abuse. Many leaders of religious orders have met with survivors to listen, to hear their concerns, to offer apology and to make restitution, and will continue to do so.

Through our safeguarding officers, we are providing access to independent counselling and support with Towards Healing www.towardshealing.ie  and the support service Towards Peace www.towardspeace.ie

In 2023 AMRI encouraged co-operation with the State in relation to the Government Inquiry into Historical Sexual Abuse in Day and Boarding Schools which reported in June 2024. In the final report Mary O’Toole SC did praise the cooperation of AMRI and its members.

Since the establishment of a Commission of Investigation into the Handling of Historical Child Abuse in schools was established in 2025, AMRI is not aware of any correspondence between the Commission and its Members. The Commission has not made any contact with AMRI to date. AMRI would welcome an invitation to collaborate and cooperate with the Commission. We also encourage our Members to cooperate with the Commission also.

Many assets of Religious Orders have been released and repurposed to accommodate many Ukrainians and people seeking Refuge in Ireland in response to various Government appeals for assistance. Many Religious Orders are downsizing in response to aging communities. Lots of Religious Property has been donated to local communities or purchased commercially.

Many religious continue to be active members of society and contribute to their communities. This can range from the Capuchin Day Centre to ecology projects in many parts of the country as well as the continued responses to issues of injustice and inequality in our society. Our Irish Missionaries, whilst smaller in numbers, continue to work in some of the most difficult and poorest parts of the world attempted to create a better and just world for all.

ENDS

Notes to Editors

The Association of Leaders of Missionaries and Religious of Ireland (AMRI) that represents over 150 Religious Institutes, Societies of Apostolic Life and Missionary Organisations, including lay missionaries. AMRI promotes religious, apostolic and missionary life as part of the mission of the Church.

For media enquiries contact Gerard Gallagher at communications@amri.ie 0872347220.

Website – www.amri.ie

 

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