Catholic priests covered up sexual abuse for decades, says report

A report published today says authorities in the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Dublin covered up child sexual abuse for decades.

The government-commissioned report investigated reports of child abuse by priests in Dublin from 1975 to 2004.

It stated that the Dublin Archdiocese's “pre-occupations in dealing with cases of child sexual abuse, at least until the mid-1990s, were the maintenance of secrecy, the avoidance of scandal, the protection of the reputation of the Church, and the preservation of its assets”.

"All other considerations, including the welfare of children and justice for victims, were subordinated to these priorities,” it said.

Cardinal Desmond Connell was among four Archbishops cited in the 700-page report for failing to report the abuse to police.

The Churches' Child Protection Advisory Service said churches in the UK should not be complacent.

“The shocking and sordid events detailed in today’s report into the behaviour of a number of priests working in the Archdiocese of Dublin reminds us – if we needed any reminding – of how child abuse destroys the lives of its innocent victims," said David Pearson, Executive Director of CCPAS.

“That abuse may have taken place in the past, but the price of child safety is eternal vigilance on the parts of those adults who look after them.

“Today’s report by the Catholic church again highlights both the need for effective measures to safeguard children, the proper and effective reporting of any concerns and the need to support everyone who has been affected by abuse.”

It follows a harrowing report published in May which revealed decades of child abuse in Church-run schools. Catholic religious order The Christian Brothers was told on Wednesday to pay 161 million euros (£145 million) to victims of child abused perpetrated by its members.