Priest voluntarily steps down

A PARISH priest in Co Louth which is part of the cross-border arch- diocese of Armagh has stood down voluntarily, it was confirmed yesterday.

Bishop Gerard Clifford spoke to the congregation about a decision made concerning their local pastor.

Bishop Clifford said Cardinal Seán Brady had instructed him to make a statement about a complaint relating to child safeguarding.

The statement said the priest involved had agreed to voluntarily step down to allow the investigation to be conducted efficiently.