Statement by the Bishop of Galway, Dr Martin Drennan, regarding the standing aside of a priest of the Diocese of Galway

22 Jan 2006

PRESS RELEASE

22 JANUARY 2006

STATEMENT BY THE BISHOP OF GALWAY, DR MARTIN DRENNAN

REGARDING THE STANDING ASIDE OF A PRIEST OF

THE DIOCESE OF GALWAY

The Bishop of Galway, Dr Martin Drennan, visited a parish in the Diocese
of Galway this morning (Sunday 22 January) and made the following statement:

“Your Parish Priest has agreed to stand aside from his position in the parish
while allegations against him are being investigated. It is important to
emphasise that what is being investigated are allegations which have not
been determined as true or false. His agreement to stand aside should not
be interpreted as connoting guilt on his part. In accordance with Church
policy, An Garda Síochána and the Health Service Executive have been notified
of the matter.”

Further information:
Martin Long Director of Communications (086 172 7678)
Brenda Drumm Communications Officer (087 233 7797)