NORTHERN IRELAND
UTV
Fr John McManus, a senior priest who stepped aside from his role after claims of abuse were made against him has returned to the ministry more than three years after being cleared of any wrongdoing.
The allegations against the Portaferry priest were first reported to the Diocese of Down and Connor child safeguarding office in early 2011 but the Public Prosecution Service later decided Fr McManus had no case to answer.
He always denied the allegations but temporarily left the Diocese when police investigations began.
Bishop Noel Treanor welcomed Fr McManus’ return with a statement on Sunday.
He said: “I am pleased to announce the return of Fr John McManus to priestly ministry within the Diocese.
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