Child Safeguarding Statement by Bishop Leo O’Reilly

Bishop of Kilmore

14 August 2011

The policy of the Diocese of Kilmore is that, in all matters relating to child safeguarding, the safety and welfare of children must be our paramount concern.  It is in this context that I wish to inform you that I have received a complaint against a priest of the Diocese of Kilmore which raises concerns in relation to child safeguarding matters.  The civil authorities have been notified of the complaint.  It is important to stress that the priest continues to enjoy the right to the presumption of innocence whilst these matters are being investigated. The complaint relates to events alleged to have happened a considerable time ago and no other complaints have been received against him.

In accordance with diocesan child safeguarding procedures, the priest in question has voluntarily agreed to take administrative leave from his parish whilst an investigation takes place concerning the complaint. I have met the parish council during the week to make them aware of this matter and I have also spoken at the weekend Masses so as to directly and personally inform parishioners.

I want to assure everybody that the Diocese of Kilmore is fully committed to safeguarding children and I invite anybody in the diocese who may have concerns in this regard to bring them to the attention of the Child Safeguarding Delegate of the diocese, Suzie Duffy: 049 437 5004 (Ext 105), [email protected] and /or to an Garda Siochána and the Health Service Executive.  For further contact details please click here.

I humbly ask you to join me in prayer for God’s help for all concerned at this difficult time.