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French Education Minister Orders Inquiry into Catholic School Abuse Scandal

The investigation follows a March inspection uncovering severe child protection failures at Le Beau Rameau, with political scrutiny intensifying over François Bayrou's alleged past involvement.

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François Bayrou, patron de l'UDF, en septembre 1992.
Des membres de l’Inspection académique de Bordeaux arrivent au groupe scolaire Le Beau Rameau, à Lestelle-Bétharram, le 17 mars.
Le premier ministre français François Bayrou maintient sa position sur l’affaire Bétharram.

Overview

  • A March inspection at Le Beau Rameau revealed systemic child protection failures, including unreported abuse cases and inadequate internal procedures.
  • Education Minister Élisabeth Borne has launched an administrative inquiry after the inspection highlighted misconduct by two teachers, including public humiliation of students.
  • The parliamentary commission will question Prime Minister François Bayrou on May 14 regarding allegations of judicial interference during a 1998 investigation into the school.
  • Bayrou denies accusations of involvement, despite conflicting testimonies from a former gendarme and judge suggesting he intervened in the case.
  • The school has been criticized for mandatory religious activities during school hours and discriminatory practices, prompting calls for immediate reforms.