Cloyne abuse scandal - Only option for bishop is to resign

“There is evidence that points to the fact that Bishop Magee, as the responsible person, did not faithfully report actual compliance with child protection procedures, and the manner in which clerical sexual abuse allegations have been dealt with,” Minister of State for Children and Youth Affairs Barry Andrews declared.

Mr Andrews specifically mentioned that the Bishop of Cloyne had proclaimed that “in our endeavour to ensure a safe environment for children in the Diocese of Cloyne, we have initiated a process that is fully complaint with the directive of the Government as contained in children first.” The diocese asserted as late as January 3, 2007, “that it was in compliance with children first guidelines in that it notified the Garda and HSE of all child abuse cases. These statements were patently untrue.

Bishop Magee’s position, which was already untenable, has become even more precarious. How long will it take him to recognise that he should do the honourable thing and resign? The HSE audit published yesterday was sent to the current minister’s predecessor, Brendan Smith, in January 2008. It was woefully inadequate, as it merely amounted to what the bishops were prepared to say about the implementation of guidelines.