Irish bishops apologize over church's handling of sex-abuse cases

Published: 2003-12-05

DUBLIN, Ireland (CNS) -- In releasing a report that acknowledged the church's past failures, Irish bishops apologized for their handling of child sex-abuse cases. Bishop John McAreavey of Dromore said the 332-page report, released Dec. 4, was an "act of sorrow" and "openness." "For what has happened we are truly sorry, and while we cannot undo the wrongs of the past, we can use this research to help us deal with victims of abuse with understanding, compassion and sensitivity," said Bishop McAreavey, who spoke at the news conference releasing the report. The report, commissioned by the church two years ago, made 19 recommendations for protecting children, handling complaints from alleged victims and training and supporting priests to prevent future abuse. "In the light of the report's recommendations, we are committed to improving upon our existing policies and the processes which currently operate to deal with this issue," Bishop McAreavey said.

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