Former bishop apologises for actions

THE former bishop of Derry, Seamus Hegarty, has apologised for historical poor practice over clerical sex abuse.

Allegations were made against 23 priests in the diocese but there were no convictions and report said those suspected of child sex attacks over more than three decades were not robustly challenged or properly managed.

Interim diocesan chief Monsignor Eamon Martin said the Church would not stand in the way of a state inquiry. Allegations were made against 23 priests but there were no convictions.