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3 March 2015

The Independent Jersey Care Inquiry began the final week of Phase 1a today (Tuesday 3 March) with evidence from four former residents of Jersey's care system.

Counsel to the Inquiry, Patrick Sadd, told the Panel that they would be hearing evidence relating to different homes over the coming days from witnesses who had come forward during the course of the hearings.  He stated that the IJCI had taken the view that it would hear from anyone who wanted  to come forward and share their experiences.  

Mr Sadd then took anonymous witness, Mr 'T' (Witness 145), through his evidence about Les Chenes Residential School in the early 1980s. He also stayed with different aunts and uncles at various times until finally being discharged from care in 1989.  

A second live witness spoke about his 12 years at Sacre Couer in the '50s and 60s. Michael Renouf was sent there aged two, along with his older sister, after their mother died in 1953. He left aged 15 to move to the boys' hostel in Clarendon Road.  Counsel was Harriet Jerram.

In the afternoon, Counsel to the Inquiry, Paul Livingston, read into the record statements from two female residents given to the States of Jersey Police about the mid 2000s.

Witness 752 gave a statement to SOJP in January 2004 which included allegations of sexual abuse by Roger Hatte, who was 45 years older than her, whilst residing at Heathfield children's home. Hatte initially denied the charge of unlawful sexual intercourse, but pleaded guilty when indicted before the Royal Court in June 2004.

In a statement to SOJP, Witness 749 recalled an incident of violence against her by a regular visitor to La Preference in 2004. Mr Livingston also referenced statements given at the time by other members of staff who witnessed the incident.

Full transcripts and supporting documents will be uploaded onto this website in due course.

The Public Hearings will resume tomorrow (Wednesday 4 March) at 0930 with a witness giving evidence by video link from Australia.

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