UTV
March 9, 2011
http://www.u.tv/News/Priest-steps-aside-amid-allegations/3b72a6e7-0520-4f91-9614-b23794d368e1
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A senior priest has stepped down from his ministry in the Down and Connor diocese while police conduct inquiries into allegations relating to child welfare.
Fr McManus is being investigated after allegations were made to the Diocesan Child Safeguarding Office last January.
On Wednesday night, he told parishioners in Ballygalget, Co Down, he was taking administrative leave.
He denied the claims "wholeheartedly", adding: "I have, however, requested administrative leave for the duration of the necessary enquiries from my ministry as a priest and from my position as chancellor.
"Bishop Treanor has acceded to my request. I have done this in the interests of child safeguarding measures and to maintain public trust in the Diocese's child safeguarding arrangements and for the good of the church."
A statement from Bishop Treanor said: "As I am speaking to you tonight, Fr McManus is informing the parishioners of Ballygalget that he has now decided to step aside from his ministry as a priest and from the position of Chancellor of this diocese during the necessary enquiries.
"In accordance with the diocesan procedures and policies, pastoral care and support was offered to all those involved."
Fr McManus was a former press spokesperson for the diocese and a member of its committee which oversees the safeguarding of children.
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