Bishop’s critics should now look at themselves

THE recent baying from certain sections of the media for all kinds of action against Bishop John Magee of Cloyne and the church in general is in stark contrast with the strangely muted response to recent revelations of horrific neglect of vulnerable young people in State care.

We are informed that no fewer than 20 such children have actually died while being cared for by our beloved State.

While under no circumstances condoning church-involved negligence in this area, its culpability pales into insignificance in comparison with these recent developments.

If those who called for Bishop Magee to resign, including Children’s Minister Barry Andrews, are to regain any credibility, then resignations must ensue immediately — starting with Mr Andrews.

In addition, surely the church is now quite entitled to tell the State to get its own house in order in this area before deeming to lecture other institutions on their failings. Presumably we can also expect RTÉ to commission a never-ending series of documentaries exposing this horrific scandal.

One waits with interest.

Eric Conway

Balreask Village

Navan

Co Meath