RCNI Press Release 24 January 2006
Lest we forget, Bishop Casey abused position of power
Rape Crisis Network Ireland (RCNI) today, expressed their dismay and concern at the lack of acknowledgement of the full wrongdoing of the former Bishop Casey’s actions. While the RCNI would not wish to deny Fr. Eamonn Casey release from exile, we do think that an acknowledgment or even recognition of the wrong doing is required. Fr. Eamonn Casey abused his power and betrayed his position of trust. Therefore, the RCNI very much welcome Bishop of Galway, Dr Martin Drennan’s call for an apology.
Fiona Neary, RCNI Executive Director said, ‘behind the references to Annie Murphy as Fr. Eamonn Casey’s ‘lover’ are some telling facts. They are as follows: Annie Murphy was in Ireland to recover from a painfully personal experience. She turned to the church for support and care. The church assigned Bishop Casey to provide that care to her. Shortly afterwards they entered into a sexual relationship.
Any caring professional, be it a doctor, a teacher, a counsellor or a priest who is entrusted with the care of a vulnerable person, who embarks on a sexual relationship with that patient/client is more than likely to be found guilty of professional misconduct.
The notion that this aspect is simply a case of socially unacceptable love misses two very important points. The relationship started when Fr. Eamonn Casey was ministering to Annie in his professional capacity as a priest. And further, a priest’s vow of celibacy, taken on trust, renders those they approach sexually, ill prepared and particularly vulnerable.
While Fr. Eamonn Casey did betray his parishioners and the Catholic church and has recognised and apologised for that betrayal and hurt, Annie Murphy was also betrayed. His misuse of position and neglect of duty of care in that relationship means that this aspect of his apology is not a private matter between two consenting adults, especially if Fr. Casey seeks to recommend himself for continued service in a ministry he has abused in the past.’
Notes:
• The RCNI is the national forum of Rape Crisis Centres, which provides a strong voice for survivors and is a catalyst for social change to end rape and all forms of sexual violence.
For information please contact: Cliona Saidlear 087 2196447
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Fiona Neary, RCNI Executive Director said, ‘behind the references to Annie Murphy as Fr. Eamonn Casey’s ‘lover’ are some telling facts. They are as follows: Annie Murphy was in Ireland to recover from a painfully personal experience. She turned to the church for support and care. The church assigned Bishop Casey to provide that care to her. Shortly afterwards they entered into a sexual relationship.
Any caring professional, be it a doctor, a teacher, a counsellor or a priest who is entrusted with the care of a vulnerable person, who embarks on a sexual relationship with that patient/client is more than likely to be found guilty of professional misconduct.
The notion that this aspect is simply a case of socially unacceptable love misses two very important points. The relationship started when Fr. Eamonn Casey was ministering to Annie in his professional capacity as a priest. And further, a priest’s vow of celibacy, taken on trust, renders those they approach sexually, ill prepared and particularly vulnerable.
While Fr. Eamonn Casey did betray his parishioners and the Catholic church and has recognised and apologised for that betrayal and hurt, Annie Murphy was also betrayed. His misuse of position and neglect of duty of care in that relationship means that this aspect of his apology is not a private matter between two consenting adults, especially if Fr. Casey seeks to recommend himself for continued service in a ministry he has abused in the past.’
Notes:
• The RCNI is the national forum of Rape Crisis Centres, which provides a strong voice for survivors and is a catalyst for social change to end rape and all forms of sexual violence.
For information please contact: Cliona Saidlear 087 2196447
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Rape Crisis Network Ireland, The Halls, Quay Street, Galway, Ireland
Registered in Dublin, Ireland Company Reg.: 363350 Charity No.: 13236
091 563676
091 563677
Registered in Dublin, Ireland Company Reg.: 363350 Charity No.: 13236
