RCNI Press Release - 11 March 2010

In light of the statements made by Bishops Christopher Jones, of Elphin , John McAreavey, of Dromore and Denis Brennan of Ferns at the 1st Bishop’s press conference following the visit to Rome, the RCNI are incredulous.

Fiona Neary, RCNI Director said, ‘through the courage and perseverance of survivors, their supporters and the Ferns, Cloyne, Ryan and Murphy Commissions into abuse the extent of cover-up and collusion with clerical child abuse is laid bare.

‘The Catholic Church in Ireland used every legalistic opportunity available to them to protect their institutions in the past. Bishop Jones’ comments yesterday are a determined effort to minimise the Vaticans’ role and is a continued approach of protecting the institution at all costs. The hierarchy are determined to diminish of the role of the Vatican in colluding with the cover-up of clerical abuse.

‘There are also indications that the good leadership and clarity of some of the leaders of the Catholic Church are being reduced to the poor performance of the weakest amongst them in the interest of ‘unity’. The institution is again being protected at the expense of sound and vital leadership and accountability.’