Inquiry to investigate Fort Augustus
A notorious Catholic boarding school where boys were allegedly abused by monks is to be investigated by the Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry, it has been confirmed.
Judge Lady Smith said the former school at Fort Augustus Abbey, on the shores of Loch Ness, would be included in the fourth phase of the inquiry, due to begin next summer.
Former pupils of the school, which closed in the early 1990s, have spoken of suffering physical and sexual abuse.
A former priest was last year convicted of assault to injury, while another – who is accused of sexual abuse – is the subject of extradition proceedings.
The inquiry, which has cost £15.7m to date, will also investigate allegations of abuse relating to Carlekemp in North Berwick, St Columba’s College in Largs and St Ninians in Falkland, Fife. Two former teachers at St Ninians were jailed in 2016 after being convicted of abuse.
Lady Smith said: “Investigations into establishments run by male religious orders and other preparatory work are well underway. We have been pleased with the response to date.
“Please would anyone who has any relevant information about any of these orders and schools contact the Inquiry.”