Priest on bail after guilty plea

A Dublin priest has been remanded on continuing bail for sentence after he pleaded guilty to indecently assaulting three altar…

A Dublin priest has been remanded on continuing bail for sentence after he pleaded guilty to indecently assaulting three altar boys in the 1980s.

The priest admitted five charges of indecent assault on the boys on dates from July 14th, 1984, to October 15th, 1988. Judge Cyril Kelly remanded the defendant for sentence on July 22nd next at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.

The Archbishop of Dublin, Dr Connell, yesterday expressed his sorrow about the case. In a statement he said, "I want to express my deep sorrow that such abuse occurred and to extend my sympathy to all who suffered, and to their families and loved ones.

"I also want to offer the pastoral support of the diocese. It is my earnest hope that the Church can bring consolation and support at this difficult time, and I invite them to contact a local priest or to contact the diocese directly at (01) 8373732."