The director of music at Bangor Cathedral, Joe Cooper, has been sacked after a row over proposed redundancies.
The decision followed “a thorough disciplinary process, including investigation into serious breaches of confidentiality and data protection obligations during the redundancy process, as well as actions during the service of worship on August 31st,” according to a statement from the Dean and Chapter of Bangor Cathedral.
A specially composed “Canticle of Indignation”, a hymn based on words from the Bible, was performed during Holy Communion. Choir members then walked out of the service in protest at proposed redundancies.
The Cathedral condemned the song and walk-out as “entirely inappropriate” and suspended the choir for a month.
Choir member Simon Ogdon composed the music set to words from Psalm 94, with verses including “they smite down thy people O Lord, and trouble thine heritage.”
Five of eight non-clergy posts were at risk because of “financial pressure”, the cathedral had previously confirmed. Cooper’s hours were also set to be cut.
The statement from the Dean and Chapter went on to recognise Cooper’s “significant contribution to the music and life of the Cathedral, especially in the creation and performance of choral works in the Welsh language and in the high musical standards achieved by the choir during his tenure.”
“Looking ahead, we remain committed to nurturing the cathedral’s rich musical and choral tradition and will take time to consider the best way forward for our music ministry. We thank Joe for his service and wish him well for the future.”
Cooper told BBC Wales it was “extremely disappointing” and that he had “no option but to speak publicly” as there had been an “apparent reluctance” by cathedral leadership to work with him in finding a solution to financial issues.
Earlier this year, a report raised concerns about “weak financial controls, unclear reporting lines, and spending decisions that were insufficiently scrutinised” at the cathedral.