Renfrewshire Council has initiated an investigation into its handling of sex assault allegations made against former Paisley Grammar School computing teacher Martin Gallacher. This probe will examine why police were not contacted after a complaint emerged in 2024 regarding Gallacher assaulting a teenager.
The initial internal investigation into the complaint was discontinued due to "insufficient evidence", allowing Gallacher to continue teaching. The council has confirmed it did not inform authorities about this original complaint.
Gallacher was subsequently arrested, charged, and last week convicted of 14 charges of sexually abusing 12 boys at the Renfrewshire school over an 11-year period. He is currently remanded in custody and is expected to be sentenced next month.
Renfrewshire Council stated it is commissioning an independent learning review into the case, which will involve police, health, and multi-agency partners. A spokesperson expressed regret for the impact of Gallacher's behaviour on his victims and confirmed that wellbeing support is being offered to those affected.