Kenny’s Dáil speech praised by priest union

A REBEL union of Catholic priests has described Taoiseach Enda Kenny’s historic Dáil speech as being steeped in “dignity”, “strength” and clear on what needs to be done.

Despite the fact Ireland’s official Catholic Church hierarchy has yet to respond to Mr Kenny’s remarks, the Association of Catholic Priests said the Taoiseach has raised vital issues which have to be heard.

Speaking on RTÉ radio, the group’s spokesman, Fr Tony Flannery, said the Dáil speech highlighted an “enormous level of frustration and annoyance” from the public and well-meaning priests over how church leaders have failed to react to problems in the church.