BishopAccountability.org
	Mooncoin Priest Embroiled in Child Safeguarding Issue By Naoise Coogan Kilkenny Advertiser September 30, 2011 http://www.advertiser.ie/kilkenny/article/44721/mooncoin-priest-embroiled-in-child-safeguarding-issue A priest from the parish of Mooncoin has been given leave of ministry from Bishop Seamus Freeman following what has been described as a “safeguarding matter”. Father Peter Muldowney, who was born in Kilmanagh, asked to be allowed a period of leave from ministry with immediate effect so that the matter can be addressed. He is understood to have left the parochial house and to be residing temporarily in a secret location. However, the priest has vehemently denied any allegations of abuse and has proclaimed his innocence, while claiming to be “shocked” at the allegations. In a statement on the Ossory website www.ossory.ie, Bishop Freeman said: “In compliance with our diocesan policy on safeguarding, this matter has been referred to An Garda Siochana, the HSE, and to the National Board for Safeguarding Children.” He added: “The presumption of innocence must prevail. There can be no further comment until this matter has been clarified by the civil authorities.” Parishioners were said to be shocked and horrified at the turn of events which came to light when the Bishop turned up to say Mass in the parish instead of Fr Muldowney last Saturday night. Bishop Freeman asked for prayers for all concerned and in the meantime appointed Father Martin Delaney, of St Canice’s parish, administrator of the parish of Mooncoin with immediate effect until the matter is clarified.
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