Dublin's Archbishop Martin wants new inquiry into abuse case involving Cardinal Brady

May 07, 2012

Archbishop Diarmuid Martin of Dublin has suggested an independent investigation into the handling of sex-abuse charges against Father Brendan Smyth, the serial molester whose case has roused calls for the resignation of Cardinal Sean Brady of Armagh.

Brendan Smyth, a Norbertine priest who died in 1997, has been charged with sexual assaults on more than 100 young people. Cardinal Brady is under fire because he learned about the charges against Smyth in 1975, when—as a young priest working for his diocesan bishop—he took part in an investigation of the case. Dozens of young people were molested after those charges were raised.

A spokesman for Cardinal Brady said that the Primate of All Ireland “welcomed and supported” the call for an independent inquiry into the history of the case.

In his remarks on the controversy, Archbishop Martin declined to join in calls for the cardinal’s resignation, but also did not oppose the idea. “I have never called for anybody’s resignation,” the archbishop said.

In a related story the Norbertine abbot who was forced to step down because of his failure to curb Smyth’s pedophilia said that the cardinal should share the blame. "Of course Cardinal Brady should resign, I'm not the only one responsible for this affair," said Father Kevin Smith.

 

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Further information:

• Archbishop Diarmuid Martin calls for establishment of independent Fr Brendan Smyth inquiry (RTE)
• Brady welcomes sex abuse inquiry call (Irish Times)
• 'I'm not only one responsible,' insists former abbot (Irish Independent)
• Cardinal Brady repeats that he will not resign (CWN, 5/4)