Over the last few weeks there have emerged a number of misleading articles in certain newspapers which are supportive of the GSLP Opposition, making allegations of physical and sexual abuse to service-users of the Dr Giraldi Home. [12 December 2007]

Over the last few weeks there have emerged a number of misleading articles in certain newspapers which are supportive of the GSLP Opposition, making allegations of physical and sexual abuse to service-users of the Dr Giraldi Home. The timing of such articles coincide with the preliminary Industrial Tribunal Hearing in which Mrs J Hernandez, the Manager of the Home, is challenging her dismissal. Mrs Hernandez is being represented at the Tribunal by Opposition Leader, The Hon J Bossano MP. The articles appear inclined to provide a line of defence for Mrs Hernandez in which it is claimed that she was dismissed for whistle blowing on incidents of physical and sexual abuse.

Both the Government and the Social Services Agency have so far declined to comment on this matter in order not to interfere with the due process of the Tribunal. However, given the extent of self-serving and misleading comments being made which are having a serious demoralising and frustrating effect on staff, service-users and parents as well as concern in the community, the Agency feels compelled to deny the false, unjustified and pernicious statements that are being made.

The Social Services Agency repeats, yet again, that it has always acted swiftly and responsibly whenever allegations of neglect or abuse have been made. All cases have been properly investigated, and depending on the circumstances of each case, appropriate action taken, even dismissal.. Furthermore, on another occasion, a case has been referred to the RGP for an investigation. In that case the RGP determined that there was inconclusive evidence to take the matter further. Notwithstanding this, managerial action was taken to safeguard the interests of the service-users.

The proper independent body to conduct enquiries in allegations of misbehaviour that would amount to a criminal offence, such as is being alleged, is the RGP. Any citizen who believes that any such offence has or may have been committed by employees of the Agency is duty bound to report the matter to the Police, and should do so.

http://www.gibraltar.gov.gi/latest_news/press_releases/2007/275-2007.pdf PDF