Irish bishop accepts 'full responsibility' for mishandling abuse, but will not resign

December 29, 2008

Bishop John Magee of Cloyne has accepted "full responsibility" for the mishandling of sex-abuse cases in his diocese. "We made errors-- not intentionally," the bishop said in an emotional Christmas-eve address. But the bishop continued to reject demands for his resignation, saying that he was determined to supervise the implementation of new policies to eradicate clerical abuse. The bishop has been under fire since the public appearance of a review, commissioned by Church leaders, showing the failure of diocesan officials to respond to credible reports of abuse. Irish government's minister for children, Barry Andrews, is expected to push for release of a separate government report on the same topic.

 

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Further information:

• Bishop Magee admits 'errors' on handling of abuse claims (Irish Times)
• Bishop defies resignation calls for child 'errors' (Irish Independent)
• Minister turns up heat on Magee (Sunday Times)