SCOTLAND
Herald Scotland
A PUBLIC inquiry into the historical abuse of children in care in Scotland will formally start its work today.
The Scottish Government pledged to ”shine a light in the dark corners of the past” earlier this year when it announced Susan O’Brien QC would chair the inquiry.
It will cover allegations of abuse of children in formal institutional care including faith-based organisations, children’s homes and secure care as well as those in foster care, long-term hospital care and boarding schools.
The inquiry, which could take up to four years, covers the period “within living memory” up to December 17 last year – the date Education Secretary Angela Constance announced it was being established.
It will have the power to compel witnesses to attend and give evidence, and Ms Constance previously pledged that where crimes are uncovered the ”full force of the law” would be used to bring those responsible to justice.
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