Priest refuses to leave parochial home

A PRIEST at the centre of abuse allegations has refused to leave his parochial house in a diocese praised for having the best child protection measures in the country.

The elderly cleric, who has stepped down from his duties in the Diocese of Kilmore, has flouted repeated requests from Bishop Leo O’Reilly to move to alternative accommodation

Bishop O’Reilly said, when the allegations against the priest came to his attention in September, he immediately informed the civil authorities.

“I spoke to the priest who voluntarily agreed to stand aside from sacred ministry,” Bishop O’Reilly said. “I informed the parish council that complaints had been received and I addressed local Masses so as to directly and personally inform parishioners.”

Neither the cleric, who is subject to a criminal investigation and legal proceedings, nor the parish where he served are being identified by the Church, as no charges have been brought.

However, the controversy is said to have divided the local community.

Fr Sean McDonagh, of the Association of Catholic Priests, said clerics are appalled at any abuse but have concerns over the emotional well-being of those accused.

He said when a priest steps down and is asked to leave his house it may be presumed that he is guilty until proven to be innocent.