Catholic charities challenge child abuse chairwoman

The appointment of Susan O’Brien QC as chairwoman of a public inquiry into historical child abuse allegations has come under fire from two Catholic charities.

Ms O’Brien’s appointment was announced last month and she is due to take up her position from 1 July, with the statutory inquiry expected to get under way in October.

However, lawyers for the Congregation of the Poor Sisters of Nazareth and the Daughters of Charity of St Vincent De Paul have lodged a petition for judicial review, saying the government appointment shows an “apparent bias”.

Ms O’Brien acted as counsel for the former residents of Nazareth House in a 2008 challenge in the House of Lords to an earlier ruling that said the claims were time-barred.

Her remit in the inquiry covers historic allegations of child abuse in institutions, foster care, long-term hospital care and boarding schools.

Alastair Duncan QC, representing both charities, told the Court of Session: “The particular concern that my clients have is that Ms O’Brien had acted for individuals alleging abuse against them, that she had supported the allegations that were made by appearing as counsel for those individuals and that she is now being asked to adjudicate on the very same issues.”

He added that it was “almost certain” the allegations that arose in the House of Lords case would be heard again at the public inquiry.

Shona Haldane QC represented the Scottish government at the proceedings.

Lord Woolman reserved judgement on Friday.