House dispute priest to take leave from Church

A Mayo priest, who was involved in a court dispute over the ownership of a house he shared with a former Franciscan friar, has announced he plans to leave his parish while he considers his commitments.

Fr Gabriel Rosbotham, a curate in Ballina, had taken legal action against Hugo Crawford in a dispute over part ownership of a cottage in Co Donegal following the breakdown of their relationship.

The Donegal house at the centre of the dispute

In a letter to parishioners today the Bishop of Killala John Fleming said the case had caused deep distress in the community.

He added Fr Gabriel had received great appreciation for his work in the diocese over the last 17 years, but had decided to take leave to reflect on his life and his ministry.