Commission opens statutory inquiry into Presbyterian Church in Ireland

The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland has launched a statutory inquiry into the Presbyterian Church in Ireland and all its component elements*.

The opening of the inquiry - the Commission’s highest level of investigation - follows the Church’s recent announcement regarding safeguarding failings, reflecting the serious nature of the concerns raised.

The inquiry formalises the process for the Commission to work closely with the charity’s trustees to ensure the safeguarding and governance issues identified are addressed and appropriate remedial steps put in place.

Frances McCandless, Chief Executive of the Commission, said: “Safeguarding is fundamental to maintaining public trust in charities. Every charity must make the safety and wellbeing of those they serve their highest priority.”

The PSNI have advised that if victims want to avail of support, or just talk to someone who can help them navigate what is a triggering or traumatic time, to please contact Victim Support NI helpline on: 028 9013 0405. They are on hand to help and can signpost you on to other local agencies if required. You can contact them from 9am to 5pm Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and 9am to 9pm on Thursdays.

To ensure there is no prejudice to this case or the ongoing PSNI investigation, the Commission will not comment further at this time.

ENDS

For more information please contact Shirley Kernan, Charity Commission for Northern Ireland Communications Officer, on telephone: 028 3832 0169 or email: shirley.kernan@charitycommissionni.org.uk

Notes for editors

*Component elements are the constituent parts or affiliated organisations that collectively form the structure of the church and include stand-alone charities, such as local congregations and other related institutions.

The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland is the independent regulator of charities in Northern Ireland.

The Commission has a statutory function, as detailed within section 8(2)3 of the Charities Act (Northern Ireland) 2008 to identify and investigate apparent misconduct or mismanagement in the administration of charities, and to take remedial or protective action.

Section 22 of the Charities Act 2008 gives the Commission the power to institute inquiries.