CRC urges anyone abused by Savile during fundraising to come forward

Clinic unaware of any allegations of abuse arising from Savile’s involvement

Jimmy Savile with  Valerie Goulding of the Central Remedial Cinic in Dublin in 1973. Photograph: Paddy Whelan
Jimmy Savile with Valerie Goulding of the Central Remedial Cinic in Dublin in 1973. Photograph: Paddy Whelan

Central Remedial Clinic (CRC) chief executive Stephanie Manahan last night said she was “appalled” by the contents of reports released yesterday in relation to sexual abuse carried out by Jimmy Savile in British hospitals.

The CRC, which works with children and adults with physical disabilities, was involved in fundraising activities carried out by Savile in the form of annual 10-mile walks between 1968 and 1981, which went from Dublin city centre to Baldoyle and later the RDS in Ballsbridge.

Accounts

Accounts of sexual abuse and improper conduct by Savile in 28 NHS hospitals were outlined in a series of reports yesterday.

Ms Manahan said the CRC was “very recently” under the management of a new board and a new chief executive and that they were “unaware” of any allegations of improper conduct on the part of Savile while involved in fundraising for the CRC.

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“To the best of our knowledge, at no time has the CRC ever been made aware of any allegations or any incidents involving inappropriate or criminal behaviour concerning Jimmy Savile, neither during, nor after, his involvement with the CRC,” she said.

“We would urge that if anyone has any suspicions, allegations, complaints or knowledge of incidents involving inappropriate or criminal behaviour concerning Jimmy Savile, we would strongly urge them to contact the relevant authorities immediately or to make contact with my office.

“As a national centre for children and adults with physical disabilities, the safety and wellbeing of our clients is paramount,” she added.

Colin Gleeson

Colin Gleeson

Colin Gleeson is an Irish Times reporter