The Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children has called for an independent inquiry into the nature of former Junior Minister Bobby Molloy’s interference in a Co Galway rape and incest trial.
Mr Molloy was forced to resign over the matter earlier this week after attempting to contact a judge on behalf of the rapist’s sister. Paul Gilligan, chief executive of the ISPCC, said the revelation highlights a disturbing official attitude to child abuse.
"We’re concerned that representations were made in regard to a case involving very serious child abuse," he said.
"I think that what’s emerging is clearly that this particular person was a serious risk to children."