Catholic sex abuse - Talk is cheap

THE weekend news that the Catholic Church’s director of child protection, Ian Elliott, and the Bishop of Cloyne, John Magee, are in serious conflict over the handling of child sexual abuse allegations made in the Cloyne diocese adds to the concern created by last week’s report that religious orders still owe the Government more than €50 million under a 2002 deal to compensate victims of clerical sexual abuse.

While the deal will cost €1.1 billion, the religious orders’ liability is only €128m, of which €76.8m has been paid.

Both these stories are in stark contrast to the great regret expressed by Pope Benedict during last week’s visit to America, where he acknowledged the evil of clerical child sexual abuse and made a heart-felt apology to victims. The Pope’s words are welcome, as were those of all churchmen who recognised the reality of the situation. However, talk is cheap and must be matched with action if it is to have any real meaning.