Cannan: 'We are truly sorry for Knottfield mistakes'

Council of Ministers responds to child abuse report

The chief minister says he is ‘truly sorry’ that children who were abused at Knottfield were failed by government and the children’s home. 

Alfred Cannan, on behalf of the Council of Ministers, has apologised for historical mistakes that contributed to young people suffering at the facility in the 1970s and 80s. 

His apology is contained in the government response to a report on the abuse by Tynwald’s Social Affairs Policy Review Committee which investigated in 2018. 

Mr Cannan said: “The Council of Ministers read this report with sincere sorrow and regret and is deeply sorry for the mistakes that were made which contributed to the suffering and the lifelong impact of these traumatic experiences."

“Whilst we cannot undo the past, we are committed to doing everything we can to provide support to those affected by this terrible betrayal of trust.” - Chief Minister Alfred Cannan

Victims of the abuse perpetrated at the hands of senior house parent Joseph Henry Marshall have been praised for giving evidence against him. 

Mr Cannan continued: “We cannot underestimate the suffering that has been inflicted on the survivors and their families, and greatly appreciate their bravery in giving evidence.  

“The report was distressing to read and must have been extremely traumatising to relive.

“We also pay tribute to those victims who are no longer with us and whose trauma and bravery will not be forgotten.”

The committee’s report, and findings, were originally published in October 2018 but were withdrawn when a criminal investigation and legal proceedings were launched. 

Marshall was jailed for six years in April last year after being convicted after trial of sexually abusing two boys at the children’s home. 

You can find out more HERE. 

The 2018 report found that vulnerable children suffered abuse of many forms whilst resident at Knottfield and that they were failed by the authorities. 

Eleven recommendations have now been made to government to improve the protection of children in care and the support available for survivors of abuse. 

The committee's report, and the Council of Ministers’ response, will go before Tynwald at its February sitting with members asked to vote on the report’s recommendations. 

If you, or someone you know, has been affected by this article you can find information on organisations which can provide advice and support HERE.