The Minister for Justice Mr McDowell this evening met with representatives of the Catholic Bishops conference to discuss the holding of an investigation into clerical child sexual abuse.
Archbishop Sean Brady, Bishop Bill Murphy and Bishop Eamon Walsh attended the meeting on behalf of the Church.
Following the meeting, a spokesperson for the Minister said the welcome meeting had provided an opportunity to discuss the issue with the Catholic hierarchy.
The Minister has held a series of meetings with interested groups including abuse survivors groups while formulating his proposals to the Government for the holding of such an inquiry.
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It is expected that the Minister will bring the outline of an inquiry to the Cabinet soon.