The Sisters of Nazareth have apologised for child abuse in institutions ran by the order following the publication of the Historical Institutional Abuse inquiry report.

In a statement it said: "We again apologise to anyone who has suffered abuse whether psychological, physical, sexual or neglect on any occasion when the sisters' standard of care fell below what was expected of them.

"It was always the desire of the order to provide a safe place for children and when we failed on any occasion, we want to express our deepest regret.

"We will now fully reflect on the contents of the report and make a considered response to the new Executive on the implementation of the recommendations," the statement added.