Statute of limitations and clerical sex abuse

Lockstep

Recently came across a case in Wisconsin concerning clerical sex abuse and the statute of limitations being lifted. Church was arguing against the elimination of the statute of limitations. Got me wondering a few things;
DOes anyone know on what grounds it's elimination could be argued against? I can't see what purpose they serve; why are limitations there in the first place?
is there any move to eliminate them in Ireland?

Jo King

kickoutthejams wrote: »

Recently came across a case in Wisconsin concerning clerical sex abuse and the statute of limitations being lifted. Church was arguing against the elimination of the statute of limitations. Got me wondering a few things;
DOes anyone know on what grounds it's elimination could be argued against? I can't see what purpose they serve; why are limitations there in the first place?
is there any move to eliminate them in Ireland?

There is no limitation period in respect of serious crimes. if a lenghty period has elapsed since the offences were committed a fair trial may not be possible. This is decided on a case by case basis. In respect of civil actions the statute was lifted for a time. The idea of the statute in civil actions is to prevent defendants having to try and defend stale claims years later when evidence may not be available. eg. witnesses dead, buildings demolished etc.

Lockstep

Would you have any info on Ireland?
News articles etc.