Answers sought on Magee

THE Catholic Bishops Conference, in a synchronised set of four announcements in March 2009, advised that Pope Benedict XVI appointed the Archbishop of Cashel & Emly as Apostolic Administrator to the Diocese of Cloyne at the request for Bishop John Magee.

This appointment, the community was advised, was a temporary measure warranted by special circumstances. But the Apostolic Administrator to Cloyne is required, under Canon Law, to consult with the College of Consultors, a diocesan body of six to 12 priests drawn from the membership of the Cloyne Diocesan Council of Priests, before making certain decisions. Cardinal Brady, at that time, described this process as “an indication of the importance which the Church gives to safeguarding children and the needs of victims”, even though a month earlier, in January 2009, he strongly advocated that Bishop Magee, “his friend of 50 years” should not resign.

Bishop Magee personally confirmed in March 2009 that he no longer exercised governance, but retained the title Bishop of Cloyne — a position that has not changed in the subsequent 900 days.