In the RTE programme Rome v Republic, Dr Martin talks frankly about the scale of abuse, expressing his deep concern that paedophile priests can often be unsure if they abused a victim or not when a new case comes to light. Former President Mary McAleese, who has been studying in Rome since leaving office, reveals the astonishing attitude to abused children she still encounters in some parts of the Catholic hierarchy. In Rome v Republic, Michael McDowell reveals 170,000 children were sent to a network of church-run institutions from the 1930s to 1970s. He reveals how the State effectively let the Church off the hook when it came to paying compensation to victims. 'Rome v Republic', RTE One, Thursday, 10.15pm.

Source: Irish Independent April 07, 2019 01:30 UTC