English Catholic agency loses appeal on same-sex adoptions

April 26, 2011

A Catholic adoption agency in England has lost another round in its legal challenge against new regulations that would require placing children with same-sex couples.

Catholic Care, a charitable group serving three dioceses (Leeds, Middlesbrough, and Hallam), has argued that the rules would require the agency to violate principles of Catholic moral teaching. But the Charity Tribunal dismissed the agency’s argument.

While recognizing that Catholic Care might be forced to end its adoption services, the tribunal said that the loss was not as serious as the “detriment to same-sex couples and the detriment to society generally of permitting the discrimination proposed.” The tribunal also noted that the loss of Catholic Care services was “not at all certain”—apparently referring to the fact that no other Catholic adoption agency has challenged the rules that were imposed 3 years ago.

Bishop Arthur Roche of Leeds called the ruling “unfortunate,” and said that it could lead to additional suffering for “the most vulnerable children for whom Catholic Care has provided an excellent service for many years.” The bishop indicated that Catholic Care is now weighing its options, which include another appeal of the latest adverse ruling.

 

---

For all current news, visit our News home page.

---

 
Further information:

• Catholic adoption charity appeal dismissed (Independent)