Priest faces new abuse charges

A priest is facing new allegations of child sex abuse, a Belfast court heard yesterday

A priest is facing new allegations of child sex abuse, a Belfast court heard yesterday. A solicitor for Father Joseph Steele (55), said further investigations had taken place since his first court appearance last February on 12 charges of indecent assault and gross indecency. Mr Denis Maloney said he understood inquiries were now completed and the file was ready to go to the DPP's office.

However, a prosecution lawyer said the file was still being prepared.

Father Steele's address was given as Kimmage Manor, Dublin, a retreat house run by the Holy Ghost Order to which he belongs, but since the February hearing he has been living in Northern Ireland. He was remanded on continuing bail until May 30th.