Statement from Bishop Kieran O’Reilly, Bishop of Killaloe on the publication of the Cloyne Report
I am saddened at the revelations in the Cloyne report that the suffering of innocent people was further compounded by the failure to deal with their allegations effectively. It is also distressing that the faith and trust of many people has been further damaged by what has been revealed in this report.
The Diocese of Killaloe has shared all allegations that it has received with the statutory authorities, the Gardai and the HSE, as well as the National Board for Safe-guarding Children in the Catholic Church. We are and we will continue to co-operate fully with these agencies.
Killaloe Diocesan procedures for safeguarding children are underpinned by Child Protection Representatives in every parish who have been trained for their work. I am sure that the robust and monitored structures which are now in place will ensure that all allegations are, and will continue to be, dealt with properly.
A great deal has been done to advance safeguarding in the Diocese of Killaloe and many trained volunteers are now working very effectively in our parishes.
The journey to rebuild trust will be slow and painful, I hope and pray that by our actions and humility we can continue the healing process to ease the pain that survivors of abuse by clergy continue to endure.
Finally, I appeal to anyone with information regarding child sexual abuse by priests in the diocese of Killaloe to make contact with one of our Designated Persons, the Garda Síochána, the Health Service Executive or a support service of their choice.
Bishop Kieran O’Reilly, SMA