RTE viewers were left stunned by Tony Delaney's account of how he was groomed and sexually abused as a child.
The successful businessman shared his heartbreaking story with Ryan Tubridy last night, adding that he was only 11 when it started. He carried the secret for decades until it nearly ruined his adult life. However, he finally told his family and then made a statement to the Garda back in 2013.
He found justice in court earlier this year and his abuser got three years in prison, with one suspended. Tony said: "What they get off on is suppressing everything, us not talking about it, the silence. I felt I had to do what's right. I had to say to people that this needs to be dealt with. Silence is what they thrive on."
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Viewers were blown away by the former hurler's honest story and took to Twitter to praise him for his bravery. One viewer said: "What a brave man he is. Well done Tony Delaney.
"Massive respect, not an easy story to talk about. I remember the 1994 All Ireland Club Final between Sarsfields and Toomevara, a game that Tony played in, a great match."
Another one wrote: "Tough watching but what a brave man. Delighted you got justice, Tony Delaney." Meanwhile, a third one added: "Very tough listening to Tony Delaney speak about the abuse he suffered as a child."
One other comment read: "'Silence is what they thrive on' - the truest statement for all kinds of abuse scenarios!"
The Late Late Show is available to watch on the RTE Player.
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