Taoiseach Enda Kenny today said he was very concerned about new allegations of physical and sexual abuse at a small country school.

Fianna Fail leader, Micheal Martin, said the abuse was documented in a report by the Children’s Ombudsman and happened as recently as 2005/2006.

In the Dail, Mr Martin called for an independent expert panel to investigate the case at the un-named school as he said the Ombudman’s report was particularly damning.

The Opposition leader said he was concerned that three separate authorities – including the Education Department – had not responded appropriately to the situation.

“The Ombudsman for Children’s report is saying that this was not handled properly by any of the three bodies involved,” Mr Martin said.

The Taoiseach said he was aware of the case and he said the issue was being examined by the Gardai, the Departments of Health, Justice and Education, as well as the child protection authority, Tusla, and the parents of the children at the school.

“I’m quite prepared to come back to you when I have more clarity,” Mr Kenny said. He added that the report awaited from Tusla was required before he could make any comment.

“There is no place for this kind of activity in any school or in any home in the country,” the Taoiseach said.

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