I welcome the measures announced today by the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Mr Barry Andrews TD, which are aimed at restoring full confidence in the Church’s work to safeguard children.I am conscious that current events concerning the handling of allegations by the Diocese of Cloyne have brought further anxiety to victims of abuse.
These events have also brought into question the efforts of thousands of volunteers and trained personnel who are fully committed to implementing best practice in safeguarding children within the Church.
I realise the extent to which many people feel let down and angry.
Today’s developments raise important issues for those with responsibility for safeguarding children in the Diocese of Cloyne.
However I am heartened by the Minister’s recognition that strides have been ‘taken in recent times in the Diocese [of Cloyne] to improve the manner in which child protection matters are handled.’
I also welcome the announcement that the Minister’s Office and the HSE will be engaging with the National Board for Safeguarding Children to explore how they can cooperate to ensure the highest standards of child safeguarding practice within the Catholic Church.
I am confident that the competence and independence of the National Board will play a key role in addressing the deficit of trust noted by the Minister.
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Sotto Voce
(Source: IBC)