The Catholic priest, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was interviewed by police on Wednesday 25 March in relation to the alleged incident.
The alleged sexual assault was reported to have taken place at a parochial house within the Armagh Archdiocese on Thursday 5 February, with the male complainant reporting to police on Saturday 7 March.
The Irish News understands that once a report had been made to police, detectives unsuccessfully attempted to locate the clergyman, who was outside the jurisdiction.
The PSNI has confirmed that an interview was conducted with a man in connection with an alleged assault, and that a file will be submitted to the Public Prosecution Service to consider whether there is sufficient evidence for charges to be brought.
It’s understood the priest at the centre of the allegation has not been celebrating Mass within his parish since the police report came to light, but it is not clear what action has been taken by authorities within the Church.
The Archdiocese of Armagh has not responded to requests for comment on the case.
A source with knowledge of the matter said Church authorities should move to reassure parishioners that it has taken all safeguarding actions in response to the ongoing police investigation.
“There is growing discussion among parishioners, and it is becoming increasingly apparent that something is amiss, given that he is currently not saying mass,” the source said.
“As it stands, he could technically return to the parish at any time and may still have access to schools and potentially vulnerable individuals.
“In comparable professions, individuals in similar circumstances would typically be suspended pending investigation.”
A police spokesperson said that “a man has been interviewed in relation to a sexual assault reported to have occurred on Thursday 5 February”.
“The report was made to police on Saturday, 7 March and the interview subsequently took place on Wednesday, 25 March.
“A file will be submitted to the Public Prosecution Service in relation to this matter.”