Rev Trevor Gribben, moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, is stepping down after an internal review uncovered 'serious and significant' safeguarding failures across the denomination between 2009 and 2022. The Church admitted that individuals had been harmed or placed at risk due to systemic shortcomings in its central safeguarding functions. Failures included not responding adequately when victims sought help, failing to refer cases to statutory authorities, and allowing some known offenders to return to worship without proper monitoring. Rev Gribben apologised unreservedly, acknowledging that these failures occurred partly during his tenure as General Secretary, even though he was not directly responsible for safeguarding operations. Church convenor Rev David Bruce said record-keeping gaps and failures to follow the Church’s own guidance meant that not all cases have yet been identified. He said that their priority is to support those harmed and rebuild trust by strengthening safeguarding structures. The Church has urged anyone affected to come forward, assuring them they will now be listened to and responded to appropriately.