Franciscans Issue Apology for Abuse at Gormanston

By Fiona Magennis
Drogheda Independent
November 1, 2014

http://www.independent.ie/regionals/droghedaindependent/news/franciscans-issue-apology-for-abuse-at-gormanston-30698429.html

Friars Hugh McKenna, Pat Lynch and Christy Regan in Gormanston College

Speaking during a Mass to mark the 60th Anniversary of the founding of the college, Minister Provincial of the Franciscans in Ireland Fr Hugh McKenna said the order must acknowledge the 'shameful reality' that they had failed those students abused by Ronald Bennett.

He said the criminal acts carried out by Bennett on repeated ocasions and over meany years meant that innocent pupils were 'profoundly harmed'.

'On behalf of the Franciscan Order I want to apologise unreservedly to each and every survivor for the pain and harm inflicted on those who suffered abuse while under the care of the friars,' he said.

'I apologise for the breach of trust and the suffering victims and their families endured,' he said. 'I also know that no apology of mine can ever be sufficient. I acknowledge with deep shame that the Franciscan Order failed you.'

Ronald Bennett pleaded guilty in 2006 to six sample charges of indecent assault on dates from 1974 to 1981.

The head of the Franciscan church in Ireland said he was 'acutely aware' that for the survivors, the 60th anniversary celebrations may seem 'offensive' and said he was aware that his apology could never be sufficient for what they had suffered.

The Provincial Minister also extended an invitation to anyone who has experienced abuse in the college to make contact with the order if they feel ready to do so.

He said anyone with concerns or who wished to report a historic incident of child sexual abuse involving the Franciscan Friars should contact the designated Liason Person and said details are also available on the website www.franciscans.ie

* Designated Liaison Person: Tom O'Donnell at 087-2687209 or dlp@franciscans.ie

*Deputy Designated Liaison Person: Br Niall O'Connell at 01-6742541.

*Counselling support is available from Towards Healing at Freephone: 1800 303416 (Ireland) or Freephone: 0800 0963315 (Northern Ireland.

Drogheda Independent