Martin: Pope's letter is further step in healing process

Archbishop of Dublin Diarmuid Martin has said a letter from the Pope apologising for clerical abuse in Ireland is "a further step in the process of healing".

In the letter, which is being read out to masses across the country this weekend, Pope Benedict said the Church feels "shame and remorse" and is "truly sorry".

He also described the abuse of children by the clergy as "sinful and criminal" and criticised the Catholic hierarchy for making "grave errors of judgement" in dealing with cases of abuse in the past.

Speaking before evening mass at Dublin's Pro-Cathedral this evening, Archbishop Martin said serious changes are needed in the culture of the Church.