Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I thank the Taoiseach for his reply. In reply to a question yesterday from Deputy Rabbitte the Taoiseach, quite rightly, responded that he, as Taoiseach, could not answer as to whether similar incidents have occurred or are occurring in any other part of the country. Everybody here has had contact with priests of the Catholic Church who set out on their ecclesiastical business with the highest standards and who have always carried out their duties in an entirely responsible manner but there have been allegations that Ferns may not be unique. I accept the Taoiseach should proceed to deal with the Dublin diocese as quickly as possible. The Murphy report demonstrates that at quite reasonable cost a private inquiry like this can lay out a litany of truth about matters that took place many years ago. From that perspective, I think for the Catholic Church itself that a national audit would be in everybody's interest because where this abuse has existed it has to be cleared out once and for all and be dealt with. This report clearly outlines its own findings. Whatever decision is made with the Government in respect of the diocese of Dublin where there are some grave allegations also, perhaps that system should apply nationally and that, for once and for all, we can set in place not just protocols but the very best practice to ensure children now and in the future can and will grow up in an environment of respect and trust where their lives will not be completely and utterly destroyed. These are difficult choices and to legislate for each individual personality is difficult. I repeat that this side of the House will accommodate whatever the Government wishes to do in terms of implementing or legislating for that best practice.

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