No denomination was "immune from the problem of trusted adults misusing their position", the launch of a Presbyterian Church child-protection guidelines has been told in Dublin.
The church has welcomed a statement by the Government of its intention to introduce vetting arrangements for new youth leaders. In Northern Ireland, as of January 1st this year, all such new leaders will have to undergo a pre-employment consultancy service check to ascertain their suitability to work with young people.
The 120-page Taking Care policy document was presented at Abbey Presbyterian church on Parnell Square by the Moderator, Rev Dr Ken Newell. It brings together updated procedures for care and safety in the church's congregations.
"Thousands of people come through the doors of our churches every week," continued Mr Lindsay Conway. director of social service. "It is vital that we provide a safe environment for them and that our leaders in turn should be safe in the knowledge that they have clear guidelines and have access to good support and advice."
Rev Dr Newell said: "Our duty to care is based on the Gospel. We did not need a piece of legislation. It was always there: 'Suffer the little children to come unto me."'
He continued: "There must be a culture of vigilance and safety. Maximising safety and minimising the risk creates a safer organisation and a safer child. We as a church are ever conscious that we are vulnerable and that abusers can gravitate towards the church."
Dr Newell said parents expected their child to be safe when participating in church-based activities.
"Accidents do happen, but negligence or a breach in procedures is a different story. Adults who work with children and young people should be recruited and selected in a most vigilant manner.
"The leaders in turn should be safe in the knowledge that they have clear guidelines and have access to good support and advice," he said.
