New tribunal could investigate old abuse cases

Old CASES along with current accusations of cover-ups by ­bishops should be considered by a new Vatican tribunal on child sex abuse, Irish church leaders have said, writes Sarah Mac Donald.

The Primate of All Ireland, Archbishop Eamon Martin, told journalists last week in Maynooth at the conclusion of the bishops’ summer meeting that the tribunal could act retrospectively.

There has been speculation that up to 12 Irish bishops could be investigated. The Archbishop of Dublin, Diarmuid Martin, also said the tribunal should “feel free” to investigate past cases. This has been echoed by Danny Sullivan, chairman of England and?Wales’ Safeguarding Commission.
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