Friday, May 13, 2011

Co Down priest suspended amid probe

A Co Down priest has been suspended as police investigate an allegation of sexual abuse against him.

Father Terry Rafferty from the Diocese of Dromore will not be exercising ministry while the PSNI investigation is taking place, the catholic church said.

The cleric denies the allegation.

Bishop of Dromore John McAreavey told his parishioners in Donaghmore in County Down about the suspension at weekend masses.

The bishop said when the allegation was made it was reported immediately to the PSNI and the National Board for Safeguarding Children.

"In accordance with the church safeguarding policy the priest concerned will not be exercising ministry during the investigation," he said.

"It is important to stress that what has been received is an allegation.

"The priest against whom the allegation is made denies any wrongdoing and continues to be entitled to the presumption of innocence."