Madam, - It would be preferable for the existing commission investigating institutional abuse to be terminated if, as the Government proposes, it is to be allowed to investigate only sample cases. This is an unacceptable insult to the victims of such horrific abuse, victims who were initially promised proper investigation and justice - and ultimately the closure and healing that this brings.
Abuse, whether it be emotional, psychological, physical or sexual, usurps the mind, body and soul of its victims.
Its effects percolate into every facet of life. Abuse causes physical and mental torture, steals personal peace, self-esteem and self-respect. It terrifies, humiliates and intimidates.
The victims of abuse are the victims of horrific crime. It is not possible to sample pain and suffering. A random selection of cases can never adequately represent the total. Each case must stand alone and receive the full attention of the investigators. Each case represents a life; and each life so dreadfully damaged is equally precious. - Yours, etc.,
Dr BERNADETTE BRADY,
Hillside Park,
Rathfarnham,
Dublin 16.