Cloyne child abuse scandal raises vital issues for church and State

THE clerical sexual abuse scandal in the diocese of Cloyne — and its mishandling by Bishop John Magee — now has implications for all dioceses in Ireland, health officials and government authorities, North and South.

The matter has moved beyond whether or not John Magee should resign as bishop of Cloyne. Cardinal Seán Brady claims Bishop Magee has “learnt painful lessons”.

Whether or not he has will be seen in his pastoral response to the victims of clerical abuse in his diocese.