Louth survivors call for inquiry into Michael Shine abuse

Representatives of Louth group Dignity4Patients were recently invited to give a presentation at Leinster House by Louth/East Meath Sinn Féin TD Joanna Byrne.

Dignity4Patients represent the over 360 victims and survivors of former surgeon and convicted sexual offender Michael Shine.

Speaking after the event, Deputy Byrne said: “I did warn all those attending the briefing, to listen to the survivors’ testimonies, that what they would hear would be difficult and emotionally taxing. 

“To hear the personal testimonies from the victims of Shines, and their experiences of being ignored, their pursuit of the truth, and the failure of authorities to stop Michael Shine for 30 years. 

“It took tremendous courage for them to come to Leinster House, stand up and tell their truths to Oireachtas Members from all parties, from Louth and across the state. 

“Since 2009 when Dignity4Patients was established as a charity, they have been determined to highlight the plight of sexual abuse victims in Ireland’s healthcare system. It is now 2025 and they are still fighting. 

“To date, the victims have been failed by the state. Promises, including those to initiate proceedings, have not been kept. 

“Their asks are very simple, the victims are seeking a Commission of Investigation into, not just the actions of Michael Shine, but the failings of the public authorities and how it was allowed to go on for such a period of time as it was. They want supports for the victims of the abuse put in place.

“They want all of those responsible to be held to account, and they want mechanisms in place to ensure crimes committed by Michael Shine over such a period of time can never occur again.”

When the meeting concluded, Deputy Byrne raised the matter directly with the Taoiseach under questions on promised legislation in the Dáil chamber.  

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Deputy Byrne said: “There were many tears during the briefing. There were commitments to support the Dignity4Patients ask for a commission of investigation. That needs to be followed through on and I will pursue this matter until the government initiate that commission.”

In response Taoiseach Micheál Martin said: “I am meeting the group and I pay tribute to it for its work and advocacy. I will engage with it. I am not making any commitments in advance of meeting it.

“I will work to determine the best method of getting to the truth in a timely manner. I am also conscious that on previous occasions, people might not have been entirely satisfied with the outcomes of other types of inquiries that took place.”