Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Priests cleared after abuse investigations

Two priests who were stood down from their parishes because of allegations of impropriety are reported to have been exonerated following investigations.

The priests, in Kildare and Down, have been cleared of allegations against them and the authorities in both jurisdictions have found they have no case to answer.

Fr. Phillip Corcoran of the parish of St. Charles Borromeo in Confey, Leixlip, stepped aside last May and parishioners were told an inquiry into allegations of a sexual nature was under way.  

It was understood, though not confirmed, that the complaint related to a matter that took place 22 years previously. 

Sources in the parish were reported last week as saying that the Director of Public 
Prosecution has ruled that Fr. Corcoran has no case to answer in relation to the allegation.  

Parishioners are now awaiting formal news regarding Fr Corcoran’s position.

Meanwhile, Fr Sean Cahill, who is based at St Malachy's Church in Castlewellan, Co. Down, and who was also accused of sexual abuse, is not to face any charges either. 

Parishioners, who had been dubious about the allegations, were said to be delighted when told the news at Mass. 

After police confirmed that no prosecution has been directed against Fr Cahill, the Down and Connor diocese said no further action was being contemplated.  Fr Cahill had vehemently denied any wrongdoing and the impropriety alleged was said to date back to the 1970s.

A diocesan spokesperson said last week that the news brought an end to a "particularly difficult process for both Fr Sean Cahill and the diocese.” 

"Fr Cahill wishes to express his thanks to all those who with their prayers, friendship and support.  The normal review under the Church's safeguarding policy and procedures and its own internal process will now resume and a further statement will be made in due course."

Fr Cahill had stood down temporarily from his ministry as the police investigation took place but denied the allegation.  

He described the allegation as “a total and utter fabrication, which is untrue and false.” 

Fr Cahill said he “never ever” in 47 years as a priest abused a child or person in any way.