Radio deals propped up fund to pay abuse claims

BISHOP John Magee’s bid to cover the cost of child abuse claims was bolstered by two controversial takeover deals for local radio services in the county.

The money originated in windfalls from two media firms and one community radio co-op which were all chaired by Monsignor Denis O’Callaghan — who was singled out for particular criticism for his handling of abuse claims in the diocese.

In 2000 he chaired the board of County Media Ltd, which owned Cork’s 96FM and 103FM and was sold to UTV for some £28.5 million.