Report Reveals Shortcomings in Clonfert Safeguarding Practice

Galway News
September 5, 2012

http://www.galwaynews.ie/27614-report-reveals-shortcomings-clonfert-safeguarding-practice

REPORT REVEALS SHORTCOMINGS IN CLONFERT SAFEGUARDING PRACTICE

The report states that this was a significant shortcoming that had a knock on effect in safeguarding structures and practices in the diocese.

The National Board for safeguarding children is now recommending the safeguarding policy and procedures be finalised as a matter of urgency.

It's also recommending that Bishop John Kirby divest himself of the responsibility for dealing with allegations alone, by ensuring all new allegations are referred to designated persons.

There were three priests incardinated into the diocese of Clonfert against whom allegations have been made since 1975.

9 allegations were reported to An Garda Siochana and to the HSE.

Clonfert diocese is one of the smallest of the 26 catholic dioceses in Ireland, with 24 parishes across East Galway and parts of Roscommon and Offaly.