IRELAND
Scotsman
By Louise Hogan, PA
The Pope has dismissed two Irish priests who were convicted in the courts of sexual abuse, it was confirmed today.
The move is believed to be the first time the Vatican has directly dismissed Irish priests using a new fast-track procedure to remove those judged to have committed offences.
A spokesman for the Bishop of the Ferns Diocese, Dr Eamonn Walsh, said: “The diocese confirms that two priests, previously convicted of child sexual abuse, have been dismissed from the clerical state.
“The dismissal of a priest from the clerical state is a supreme decision of the Holy Father.”
The effect of dismissal from the clerical state is a permanent separation from all ministry, including the loss of all rights associated with the priesthood and the loss of authorisation to exercise ministry in the name of the Church.
Dr Walsh made an application to the Vatican to have the two men removed.
A spokesman for the diocese would not confirm the identities of the men.
Two priests of the Ferns diocese, James Doyle and Donal Collins, have been convicted of sexual abuse.