Allegation against Priest Dropped, BBC News [Northern Ireland], June 5, 2006

Allegation against Priest Dropped

BBC News [Northern Ireland]
June 5, 2006

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/northern_ireland/5036116.stm

A Catholic priest has expressed anger that it has taken two years to drop allegations of child sexual abuse.

The Public Prosecution Service has decided not to proceed with any charges against Father James Donaghy.

In March 2004, he voluntarily stepped down from his ministry in County Down following an allegation made by two individuals, which he denied.

Fr Donaghy had been based at Ballyholme

"On 10 April, the Public Prosecution Service directed no prosecution due to insufficient evidence," the PPS said.

The alleged abuse was said to have happened more than 20 years ago.

Father Donaghy had been based at the Most Holy Redeemer Church at Ballyholme in Bangor.

In a statement, his solicitor said Fr Donaghy had made it clear at the time that "he was absolutely innocent of any wrongdoing and would resist the unfounded allegations in every way possible".

He added: "Since then, he has cooperated with the police in the course of their inquiries and has waited patiently for his name to be cleared.

"He has at last been vindicated following a decision... by the Public Prosecution Service that he should not be prosecuted.

"He is, however, disappointed and angry that the authorities have taken over two years to arrive at this decision."

'Heavy burden lifted'

Father Donaghy said he wanted to thank parishioners, family, friends and colleagues for their support "throughout this two year ordeal".

Fr John McManus, a spokesman for the Down and Connor Diocese, said Fr Donaghy had been through a very difficult time.

Fr Donaghy has been through a very difficult two years, years of emotional and spiritual upset," he said.

"They have indeed been trying years for him. A heavy burden has been lifted off his shoulders.

"This has been a very difficult and demanding time for his family, his friends, his parishioners and his fellow priests. They will be more than relieved to know that no prosecution will take place."