Ireland: Arrests in safeguarding probe

Two arrests have been made in connection by police investigating safeguarding failures in the Presbyterian Church of Ireland (PCI).

The development comes several months after the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) opened a criminal investigation following significant safeguarding failings within the all-Ireland PCI were revealed. So far, 127 individuals have come forward to the police.

Following the arrests, PCI moderator Richard Kerr issued a statement, saying: “We remain saddened by the circumstances which gave rise to the PSNI investigation and are continuing to assist the police in every way we can. We also recognise the bravery and strength of those who have already come forward and continue to encourage all victims, survivors and those with concerns to do so.”