French PM Bayrou Denies Knowledge of Bétharram Abuse as Victims Demand Justice

François Bayrou meets with victims of Notre-Dame de Bétharram abuse scandal and announces additional judicial resources to advance investigations.

Prime Minister François Bayrou reiterated he was unaware of sexual abuse at Notre-Dame de Bétharram during his tenure as Education Minister in the 1990s.
A collective representing victims claims over 30 perpetrators have been identified, including clergy, staff, and students, with one alleged perpetrator currently serving as a local elected official.
Bayrou announced the allocation of additional judicial resources, including detaching a magistrate to expedite the investigation into over 100 complaints of abuse spanning decades.
Victims' representatives criticized systemic failures and a culture of silence, while urging reforms in how abuse cases are handled and victims supported.
A parliamentary commission of inquiry is set to be discussed next week as Bayrou faces political scrutiny over allegations he ignored warnings about the abuse.