The move is part of a pilot announced by the Bishop of Derry, Donal McKeown, in his role as apostolic administrator of the diocese in a new pastoral letter entitled, "Be part of God's Amazing Dream".

Published for Pentecost, Bishop McKeown reveals that within 15 years, the diocese will, for the first time in its history, have more priests who are retired than in active ministry.

Down and Connor currently has 86 parishes and 146 churches ministered to by around 84 priests in active ministry.

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The review was carried out by the Catholic Church's child protection watchdog, the National Board for Safeguarding Children.

It revealed that since 1975, 59 allegations had been made in the diocese.

Three priests have been convicted of offences against children.

The report went on to say that 14 allegations since the appointment of Bishop Noel Treanor five years ago had been properly managed.

In seven of these cases, there was insufficient evidence to proceed.

"All of these seven priests are in good standing in the diocese," the report said.

Of the other seven, all are currently out of ministry, one is in the criminal investigation process and one is in prison.

The report found that the diocese, which covers most of counties Antrim and Down and is the second largest by population on the island of Ireland, complied fully with 46 of 48 criteria.

The review was carried out in May this year.

Its report said: "This is an excellent result and indicates the very successful and effective investment of time and resources by the Diocese of Down and Connor in its child safeguarding services over the last five years."

The two outstanding criteria referred to support for and monitoring of priests who have abused and a written plan of action on implementing and monitoring standards.

Bishop of Down and Connor Noel Treanor said his thoughts and prayers were firstly with victims of child abuse and their families.

"They have experienced much suffering and pain and the church will always bear this wound.

"I pledge to continue to put all resources in place to help and support victims.

Source

BBC
Image: BBC