Clare priest 'deeply ashamed' by gay-website photos

A Co Clare Priest has put in a request for time away from his parish after photographs of him, allegedly from a gay website, were published in a tabloid newspaper.

Fr Michael Hogan today issued a statement acknowledging he breached his vow of celibacy, and has apologised to locals in the East Clare parish of Feakle.

Fr Hogan said he was "deeply ashamed" at revelations concerning his use of a gay website in the Sun newspaper today, and his indiscretions in relation to his vow.

He said he apologised profoundly for the hurt and embarrassment caused to parishioners, and asked the bishop for time away from his ministry to deal with his personal issues.

Chairperson of Feakle Parish Council, Gary Pepper said people should now respect his privacy.