A PRIEST in the diocese of Kerry has condemned the removal of Christian symbols from hospitals and schools in the diocese and has urged Christians to stand up for their beliefs.Speaking at Mass, Fr Kevin McNamara, a curate at St Mary’s Cathedral in Killarney, said he was “greatly saddened” by the removal of crucifixes and other symbols from hospitals in Kerry.
He criticised the Health Service Executive for spending some €10,000 to fight the reinstatement of a Sacred Heart statue over the door of the Killarney Community Hospital.
The HSE has lodged an appeal against a council decision refusing permission to remove the statue and retain it on the ground alongside the hospital.
It has paid fees of of €4,500 to lodge the appeal.
Fr McNamara said the money would have been better spent in providing nursing and care facilities for people.