Dublin Archdiocese releases updated figures on sexual abuse of minors

Published: 2007-05-04

DUBLIN, Ireland (CNS) -- The Archdiocese of Dublin said 145 priests have been accused of abusing children since 1940. In an update on clergy sexual abuse, Ireland's largest archdiocese said 112 legal actions have been taken against the archdiocese concerning the actions of 32 priests. The figures released in early May 2006 showed 105 actions against 32 priests. Forty of the112 cases are still pending, and 72 have concluded at a cost of 7.8 million euros (US$10.6 million). Of the 7.8 million euros, about 2.2 million euros (US$2.9 million) was for legal costs and 5.6 million euros (US$7.6 million) was paid to victims. The average payout per victim has been roughly 80,000 euros (US$108,710). The archdiocese said the main reason for the increase in the number of priests accused is because the updated figures include priests from other areas who were substituting for archdiocesan priests and also Dublin priests who were accused of child abuse while working overseas.

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