There was some truth in Paisley’s tirades against our priestly republic

OVER the years the media and politicians exhibited an unhealthy deference towards the Catholic clergy and hierarchy in this country.

Last week I quoted Taoiseach John A Costello telling the Dáil that he had actually sought and secured the permission of the Archbishop of Dublin to talk to his Minister for Health, Noel Browne, about pending legislation.

Ger Colleran, editor of the Irish Daily Star, used the same quote on the Tonight with Vincent Browne TV3 programme on Tuesday night. He went on to quote Costello saying he obeyed the Catholic Church authorities. There ensued an intriguing discussion with Bishop Willie Walsh of Killaloe.