Once infamous diocese now a model of best practice

THE diocese made infamous by the crimes of paedophile priest Fr Brendan Smyth is now considered a “model of best practice” for child protection.

Kilmore Diocese, where the Norbertine Order of which Smyth was a member is based, was given a clean bill of health in the review which noted that proper procedures had been followed in all seven cases in which allegations were made against priests since 1975.

Three of those priests were now deceased, one was convicted and in prison, one was in ministry and the remainder were out of the priesthood or retired. One priest who was the subject of an allegation also resided in the diocese but was not a priest of the diocese and so did not come under the terms of the review.

The exception to the record of good practice was the case of Brendan Smyth, who was similarly not under the jurisdiction of the diocese and so not technically part of the review, although his case is highlighted given that he repeatedly returned to Kilnacrott Abbey when suspicions about him arose and he was shielded by the authorities there. The report states: “It should be noted that the response made to this priest was considered by the reviewer to be inadequate as it was felt to display a disregard for the safety and wellbeing of vulnerable young people.”

His death in 1997 predated Bishop Leo O’Reilly’s appointment. The report states: “None of this can be attributed in any way to the present bishop or to anyone currently in a safeguarding role in the diocese.”

However, it continues: “It represents important learning for all those involved in safeguarding in the Church as to the tragic consequences of failing to recognise the risks posed by those that habitually seek to harm children and young people.”

Kilmore, which takes in most of Co Cavan plus parts of Leitrim, Sligo, Meath and Fermanagh, has just 36 parishes but it is “an excellent example for other church authorities to follow… To a significant extent, this is seen as a consequence of the personal commitment and diligence of Bishop O’Reilly who demonstrated a willingness to lead others and to address safeguarding concerns when they arose,” the report stated.

It also goes on to commend the “enthusiasm and commitment of staff and volunteers”. Its key recommendation is that the designated person to whom allegations should be made in the diocese be a lay person instead of a priest.

Bishop O’Reilly welcomed the findings, saying: “I hope the review will give some measure of reassurance to victims, their families and to all parents and families, that the diocese has high standards of safeguarding and is open to continued enhancement of current and future practice and so contribute to making it a safe place for children.”

He said he was aware that the review might reopen the wounds of abuse victims. “I once again apologise to them and express my anger and deep sadness that they experienced this betrayal by those who should have brought them Christ’s love and compassion.”