PRESS RELEASE
3 March 2008
Bishops meet with Chairpersons of Diocesan Councils of Priests to discuss new forum for priests
Following the decision of the National Conference of Priests of Ireland to dissolve at its September 2007 Annual General Meeting, representatives of the Irish Bishops’ Conference met with Chairpersons of Diocesan Councils of Priests at Maynooth College on 25 February last. The purpose of the meeting was to initiate discussion on how the interests and concerns of priests can be shared and discussed at national level. Almost all dioceses were represented at the meeting.
An open and wide-ranging discussion took place touching on many of the areas of the life and ministry of priests in Ireland today which might fruitfully be taken up by a new forum for priests. It was agreed that such a forum would further enhance communication between bishops, priests and the lay faithful at national level.
It was decided that each Priests’ Council will initiate a consultation with all priests in their diocese to consider how this proposal might be taken forward.
It was agreed to bring the results of these discussions to a further national meeting later in the year.
The bishops and priests present expressed their enthusiasm for progressing this initiative and for enhancing support for the life and ministry of priests.
ENDS
Further information:
Martin Long, Director of Communications (086 172 7678)
Kathy Tynan, Communications Officer (086 817 5674)