Child abuse inquiry may be extended to other dioceses

A COMMISSION of inquiry into allegations of child abuse in the Dublin Diocese will be given the power to widen its investigation to take in other areas if ‘red flags’ are raised following a nationwide audit.

Justice Minister Michael McDowell is due to bring his proposals on how the inquiry will operate before the Government next Tuesday. The main element of the terms of reference will deal directly with Dublin and allegations against more than 70 priests in the diocese.

While a Ferns-type inquiry into all dioceses has been ruled out in the short term, one module will centre on what is happening in other parts of the country.