Taoiseach Micheál Martin Issues State Apology to Bill Kenneally Victims

Taoiseach Micheál Martin delivered a formal, unreserved state apology in the Dáil on July 14, 2026, to the victims of Bill Kenneally, a former basketball coach who sexually abused boys in Waterford between 1970 and 1993. The apology followed a report by the South-East Commission of Investigation, chaired by retired judge Michael White, which identified a "clear and serious dereliction of duty" by An Garda Síochána. The inquiry revealed that senior police officers were aware of Kenneally's crimes as early as 1987—including admissions of abuse—but failed to arrest him, allowing the abuse to continue until a formal complaint in 2012.

Martin specifically condemned two former Fianna Fáil TDs, Billy Kenneally Snr and Brendan Kenneally, as well as Monsignor John Shine, for prioritizing their relative over the safety of children. Kenneally died in prison in June 2026 while serving a 19-year sentence.

Minister for Justice Jim O'Callaghan announced that the Department of Justice is preparing a mediated redress scheme to provide compensation and avoid further lengthy legal processes for survivors. While some victims noted the apology provided closure, Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald criticized the state for a catastrophic failure to protect children and demanded that the government provide expedited redress and full justice.