Cathal BarryArchbishop Diarmuid Martin has been accused of “confusing” the media in relation to the Church’s stance on same-sex marriage ahead of the referendum next month.
Catholic activist and editor of the Catholic Voice newspaper Anthony Murphy insisted the Archbishop of Dublin would “have to accept some responsibility” if the referendum is passed “for failing to mobilise his diocese against it”.
Archbishop Martin is familiar with the Catholic Voice and has been a guest speaker at a conference organised by Mr Murphy.
Speaking to The Irish Catholic, Mr Murphy said that given the archbishop’s media experience it was “most surprising and unfortunate” that Dr Martin’s contributions to the debate on same-sex marriage have “seemed to generate positive headlines” for the ‘yes’ campaign.
“It’s really unfortunate that his leadership appears to be missing on this issue and it’s disappointing that there won’t be a clear campaign by the hierarchy. It’s astonishing that the Church is not more actively involved really,” he said.
Referring to a talk last week by Archbishop Martin hosted by the Iona Institute, Mr Murphy claimed those in attendance were “disappointed” that the archbishop would not give a “personal response” to the referendum, pointing people instead to the bishops’ joint statement.
“He gave the impression that he was reluctant to become involved as a celibate male and that married people are better placed to have the debate. People turned up to that talk expecting a clear lead from their bishop and they didn’t get it,” he said.