Abuse at a deaf school: ‘I screamed at night, but no one could hear me’

IRELAND
The Journal

MANY CHILDREN HAVE positive stories from St Joseph’s School For Deaf Boys in Cabra, Dublin, from its 150-year history.

It was the chance for many to learn Irish Sign Language, allowing them to communicate and express themselves comfortably.

Others learned trades and were able to leave school and earn a living.

The school became known worldwide for its high standards of education – but it also has a murky history starting from the middle of last century.

“I didn’t know what to expect when I first arrived,” Larry Coogan recalls from his largely positive time at school between 1953 and 1958. He went on to become a master tailor.

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