Courtney McGrailTen years after the publication of the devastating Ferns Report into clerical abuse, child safeguarding in the Diocese of Ferns continues to be an “evolving” process.
The Ferns Inquiry began in 2002 and lasted three and a half years, being published on October 25, 2005 with Ferns being described in the press as “the most evil diocese in the world”.
Now a decade later, Bishop Denis Brennan of Ferns told The Irish Catholic that while the diocese is now a safer place, the work of child safeguarding is a continuous work in progress. “The focus in Ferns – while conscious of the past – is now based on incorporating new insights into our pastoral and professional practice of safeguarding, always understanding that it remains a work in progress – and crucially – ministry for everyone,” Bishop Brennan said.
Colette O’Doherty from the Diocesan Safeguarding Office said the diocese is “aware of the effects” of its history and is “always trying to instil the awareness that the safeguarding measures in place are about enabling not providing an obstacle to ministering in the community,” she said.