PD TD launches scathing attack on Catholic Church

Progressive Democrat chief whip Liz O'Donnell has launched a scathing attack on the Catholic Church during a Dáil debate on the clerical sex abuse scandal in Ferns.

The Dublin South TD accused the Church of acting like a secret society by operating under its own laws and codes.

She said bishops colluded to protect priests accused of child sex abuse and attempted to implement a cover-up when details were eventually made public.

She said the cosy relationship between the Catholic Church and the Irish State had to end and also said the Government should examine the Catholic ownership of national schools around the country.