Priest suspended pending inquiry into rape allegations

THE priest at the centre of a rape allegation in the archdiocese of Tuam is to step aside while an investigation is undertaken, the Archbishop of Tuam confirmed last evening.

There was consternation yesterday when it was revealed in a newspaper report that the priest under investigation for allegedly raping a young pregnant woman was continuing to serve in the diocese.

A Garda Press Office spokeswoman confirmed on Wednesday night that gardaí were investigating allegations of sexual assault and are preparing a file for the DPP.