Education secretary apologises to survivors after 'shocking' report

WALES' education secretary has apologised to survivors after a “sobering and shocking” report into the abuse perpetrated by disgraced headteacher Neil Foden.

- CHRIS HAINES

Lynne Neagle

Lynne Neagle gave a statement to the Senedd following publication of the harrowing review which found “no less than 50 opportunities to act and intervene” to stop the paedophile.

Foden, 68, from Old Colwyn in Conwy county, was jailed for 17 years in July 2024 after being found guilty of 19 charges involving sexual abuse of four girls.

Ms Neagle paid tribute to the extraordinary courage of survivors of Foden's abuse who titled the resulting child practice review report, Our Bravery Brought Justice. She told the Senedd: "I also want to say to them that I am truly sorry for the abuse they suffered, sorry for the trust that was betrayed and sorry that they were failed by so many of the people and organisations that should have protected them."

In yesterday's statement, Ms Neagle said: "I want to be clear: these events should never have happened. And it is incumbent on all of us to ensure they are never repeated. The report makes 27 recommendations for action, both locally and nationally, spanning my portfolio and that of the minister for children and social care.

"Today, I am confirming we accept all the recommendations directed to us and that we are committed to act on all of them immediately."