Authorities are currently examining “at least one complaint” and are liaising with various additional potential victims in connection to allegations of unsuitable sexual behaviour involving senior women’s football. The ongoing inquiry regards accusations levelled against a high-ranking women’s football coach. Another senior coach is also under scrutiny by specialist officials based on complaints received.
These allegations are of a historical nature, hearkening back to incidents presumed to have taken place during the 1990s. The public first became aware of these investigations on Thursday via RTE Investigates. A documentary, scheduled for Sunday broadcast, is expected to feature several individuals who were purportedly on the receiving end of unwarranted sexual advances made by male coaches.
These investigatory efforts have been conducted jointly with the Sunday Independent. An Garda Síochána has verified that it has initiated the investigation into minimum one complaint. Through the Garda National Protective Services Bureau (GNPSB), Garda Síochána remains in communication with several potential complainants and continues to engage with them.
The ex-coaches have retorted with denials of any misconduct according to RTE.
In his address to the FAI general assembly on Thursday, the association’s president Paul Cooke proclaimed an impending media revelation pertaining to historical abuse allegations of women participating in football during the 1990s. He emphasised the association’s commitment towards the issue and expressed their ongoing engagement with both the women concerned and relevant investigative bodies.
He reiterated the association’s stance on treating all safeguarding issues brought to its notice as a high-priority matter.
Recently, the anonymous reporting system was introduced by the FAI for players to report any inappropriate behaviour. This initiative, inclusive of a confidential helpline and website, will be extended to clubs throughout the nation.
Catherine Martin, the Sports Minister, expressed shock at the allegations in her statement on Thursday. She expressed comfort in the assurance that the Football Association of Ireland was collaborating fully with the active Garda investigation and was handling the situation with an athlete-centric approach.
The protection of children and youthful individuals in sports is of utmost importance and any acts jeopardising their safety should not be tolerated at all. I salute the courageous females who have come forward.