Cardinal letter to express regret on abuse cases

Cardinal Desmond Connell is sending a letter to all diocese around the country expressing regret at mistakes made in dealing with child sexual abuse by priests.

Cardinal Connell’s letter is being distributed this weekend. He says the church failed to deal with abuse in ‘significant ways’.

He adds that the church asks forgiveness for these failures.

The Cardinal reaffirms his commitment to the Hussey Commission, which is investigating allegations of child sexual abuse against members of the clergy.