The Church of Ireland Archbishop of Dublin, the Most Rev John Neill, said today churches off all faiths have to continue their efforts to tackle the “evil” of child abuse.
In his first public remarks since the Murphy report last week, Dr Neill expressed his "deep sorrow for and sympathy with" the victims of clerical child sex abuse and paid tribute to their bravery.
“In having the courage to bring to light the dreadful experiences of their own childhood, the victims of abuse have challenged the whole of Irish society,” he said. They have performed an invaluable service to those who might be at risk now or indeed into the future."
He said the public’s trust in “good and faithful priests” has been undermined by those responsible for the abuse and for cover-ups.
Dr Neill said churches have to continually monitor anyone involved in caring for children and vulnerable adults. “It is only with constant vigilance, coupled with honesty and openness that the evil of abuse can be countered,” he said.
"It is in this spirit that I share with Archbishop Diarmuid Martin his determination that the needs of victims are uppermost and that there is no room for denial or cover-up.”