At the invitation of the National Office, Dr Monica Applewhite visited Ireland to assist us in the development of policy and practice with particular regard to the responding to alleged offenders within the Church. Dr Applewhite addressed the Irish Bishop’s Conference on Tuesday 10th March speaking on the lessons learnt from the United States of America. She spent a day working with the National Office team helping us to advance our thinking in risk assessment and also offered advice on training. On Thursday 12th March, she addressed a group of religious delegates and leaders.

Dr Applewhite has great experience and through her visit the work she has greatly helped and advanced our thinking in this critical area. A copy of her address to the Bishops has been posted on the site along with a copy of her curriculum vitae. It is hoped that she will be able to retain a connection with our work here and in time return to provide us with further assistance and support.