Journey in a Broken World- over 150 Priests, and religious investigated for sexual abuse over past 68 years- Dublin

(Journey in a Broken World; c.f. News 24 (Secular i.e. Non-Catholic) 07/11/08)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Dublin Archdiocese has released figures that in the past 68 years, over 150 priests and religious, in the Archdiocese have been investigated for possible sexual abuse. There have been several convictions of late, and the Archdiocese asks those with information to approach police, child services and the church. Catholics used to be excommunicated within three months if they did not report sexual abuse, or vow to, within the context of the pretext or actuality of the sacrament of confession, however we have not found this in the 1983 version of Canon law. Rather- priests, and false accusers are to be punished according to Canon 1387, 1389, and 1390- which require actions against those allowing harm- by those responsible with ecclesiastical authority and jurisdiction, discipline of guilty priests, and punishment for false accusers also, and those in authority within the church- who refuse to prevent harms being done via such.

Canon 1389 provides for punishment of those abusing ecclesiastical authority, or not acting against others, who carry guilt if given ecclesiastical authority.