IRELAND
Waterford Today
By Deirdre Dalton
Waterford Today can reveal that the Diocese of Waterford and Lismore has to date, had no claims of child sexual abuse brought against them.
According to Fr. Liam Power, Communications Officer, Diocese of Waterford and Lismore “one claim concerning C.S.A (Child Sexual Abuse) has been brought but ultimately did not proceed.”
However it should be noted that this refers strictly to the Diocese of Waterford and Lismore and cases have been brought against other religious orders in Waterford who aren’t governed by the Diocese of Waterford and Lismore.
Stewardship Trust
Meanwhile in 2004 the Diocese contributed e166,000 to the Stewardship Trust which was set up by the Catholic Church to fund compensation claims for individuals who suffered abuse by it’s members.
According to Fr. Power, “in 2004, having consulted with the priests of the diocese and the diocesan finance committee, which comprises priest and lay people, it was decided that the payment to the Stewardship Trust would be met from diocesan assets, voluntary contributions from the clergy and and increase of 2.5% on the existing 7.5% diocesan levy on parishes. However, after further consultation, it was decided that the 2.5% levy would not be held.”
Fr Power recognises that “the sums involved are significant for a diocese of our size but I am confident that we will meet whatever commitments may arise.”