In a poignant appearance on RTÃ's Questions and Answers in 2009, Michael O'Brien recounted his harrowing experiences of abuse at St Joseph's Industrial School. Acknowledging the devastating impact these memories had on his life, he expressed his pain during questioning, particularly regarding the handling of abuse claims by authorities. O'Brien's heartfelt plea for sensitivity toward survivors resonated deeply, with his words marking a critical moment in public discourse about clerical abuse in Ireland. His testimony sparked significant emotional reactions and tributes following his passing, remembering his bravery and advocating for peace for those affected.
They brought a man over from Rome, 90-odd years of age to tell me I was telling lies, that I wasn't beaten for an hour, non-stop, by two of them.
You hurt us [survivors] when you do that. You tear the shreds from inside our body. For God's sake, try and give us some peace, try and give us some peace, and not continue hurting us.
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