Commission Finds "Serious Dereliction of Duty" by Senior Gardaí in Bill Kenneally Case

A Commission of Investigation found a "clear and serious dereliction of duty" by senior gardaí in their handling of paedophile Bill Kenneally's case, even by 1987 standards. While no widespread collusion by State authorities was found, the failure to properly investigate in 1987-1988 had devastating consequences for victims.

Kenneally, serving 19 years for abusing 15 boys in Waterford (1979-1990), admitted abuse to senior gardaí in 1987, naming seven boys. However, he was not arrested or prosecuted and continued abusing children until a formal complaint by victim Jason Clancy in December 2012 initiated a full investigation. Judge Michael White, chair of the Commission, noted that many, including those in responsible positions, knew of Kenneally's abuse by late 1987, but "nothing appropriate was done."

The Commission criticized Acting Chief Superintendent Sean Cashman and Acting Superintendent PJ Hayes for failing to conduct a proper investigation after December 26, 1987, despite clear evidence of sexual assault. Hayes was also cited for a conflict of interest due to his close ties to Kenneally's family. The report highlighted that existing legislation would have allowed Kenneally's arrest, potentially revealing Polaroid photographs and identifying other victims. The Law Reform Commission was recommended to urgently consider the absence of a criminal offence of "misconduct in public office."

Additionally, Kenneally's cousin, former Fianna Fáil TD Brendan Kenneally, was criticized for not contacting child protection agencies after learning of the abuse in 2001. The South Eastern Health Board also failed to act on a 1989 paediatrician's report detailing threats and other victims, a missed opportunity to stop Kenneally earlier.