Statement of Bishop Leo O’Reilly on judgement today in the High Court in Dublin

28 Feb 2014

I note the decision of Mr Justice Kearns today in regard to the application of the Plaintiffs in their case for further compensation from the Bishop of Kilmore in addition to the compensation already received from the Norbertine Abbey, Kilnacrott in 1998 and 1999, for the injuries they suffered at the hands of the Norbertine priest, Father Brendan Smyth.

I acknowledge and I deeply regret the great suffering that all three plaintiffs endured at the hands of Father Smyth and I utterly condemn his actions and the betrayal of trust that they represent.

ENDS

Notes to Editors

• Towards Healing is a support service, funded by the Catholic Church, for survivors of institutional, clerical and religious abuse. Towards Healing offers a free and confidential helpline and counselling referral service including:
– Helpline support 1800 303416 (RoI) and 0800 096 3315 (NI and UK)
– Counselling
– Psych-educational Group Work
– Practical workshops
– Restorative justice / facilitated listening meetings
– Advocacy

For media contact: Catholic Communications Office Maynooth: Martin Long 00353 (0) 86 172 7678