Sunday Mirror (Northern Ireland)
Celtic compo for sex abuse youth player
Victim assaulted by sicko McCafferty
A FORMER youth player at Celtic has been awarded “significant” compensation from the club after being sexually abused by a coach.
Jim McCafferty, 73, from Lisburn, Co Antrim, was jailed in May after pleading guilty to 11 charges over paedophile activity against 10 victims over several decades.
The Parkhead club has admitted liability for historic abuse carried out by the convicted paedophile and the award was made to the victim, who cannot be named, by the Personal Injury Court in Edinburgh.
It was claimed the man’s mental health was impacted by abuse during the 1990s.
Kim Leslie, the victim’s lawyer, said in a statement: “For decades my client suffered as a result of McCafferty’s abuse so I’d like pay tribute to him for the courage he has shown in stepping forwards.
“Ever since McCafferty’s abuse was exposed Celtic FC remained firm in its defence and denial of responsibility. However, after thorough investigations, I was able to present a robust case which resulted in the club admitting liability.
“I hope the successful end to this legal action brings closure to my client and also brings hope to those who are considering a civil action of their own.
“His legal team added the award was “significant”.
The High Court in Edinburgh heard in May that McCafferty, originally from Scotland, abused his position of power and used his intimidating physique to carry out a campaign of “sexual depravity” against players. He previously received a jail tern for sexual offences against a boy in Northern Ireland.
McCafferty, who was also kitman at Hibs and Falkirk, was sentenced to six years and nine months, backdated until October. He was also placed on the sex offenders’ register.
Peter Lawell, Celtic’s chief executive, previously said: “We respect claimants’ rights and our advisers will communicate with them and their representatives directly in the proper manner, respecting their rights to confidentiality.”