Warning – Vincent’s account of his experiences connects at a very deep emotional level and may bring up memories for some people. Call 09 378 8812 if you would like to discuss.
Witness Statement of Vincent T. Reidy to The Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care
Vincent Reidy has very kindly shared his Witness Statement to The Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care. I found Vincent’s testimony a very moving account of the tragic consequences of a powerful organisation exploiting its hierarchy and traditions to cover up the repugnant behavior of some of its members.
Vincent shares his experience of being groomed as a teenager by a priest in the late 1950’s. He was sexually abused by the same priest in the mid-1960’s while studying at a seminary. Vincent clearly states how these experiences contributed to decades of being disadvantaged by abusive and exploitative relationships.
The The Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care is looking into what happened to children, young people and vulnerable adults in State and faith-based care in Aotearoa New Zealand between the years 1950-99.
Investigations will give a voice to those victims and survivors of abuse and neglect in care who want to share their experiences. They will allow the Inquiry to look back and make findings about what happened and why, and also to look forward and make meaningful recommendations for change to the way New Zealand cares for children, young people and vulnerable adults.
Current investigations | Abuse in Care – Royal Commission of Inquiry