‘When will children be safe?’ | The Irish Catholic
important read
Saturday, December 28, 2013
Friday, December 20, 2013
Friday, December 13, 2013
Tuesday, December 10, 2013
Christian Brothers 'deeply regret' hurt caused by abuse | BreakingNews.ie
Christian Brothers 'deeply regret' hurt caused by abuse | BreakingNews.ie
pass me the barf bag...
'Safeguarding deficit' 'mistakes'....the same old, same old and it all sounds very much like a document to shore up Brady. Awful hypocrisy.
pass me the barf bag...
'Safeguarding deficit' 'mistakes'....the same old, same old and it all sounds very much like a document to shore up Brady. Awful hypocrisy.
Saturday, November 30, 2013
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
Wednesday, November 13, 2013
About | lewisblayse.net
About | lewisblayse.net
an Australian activist . worked all his life to uncover the truth. worth looking at.
an Australian activist . worked all his life to uncover the truth. worth looking at.
The Child-Rape Assembly Line | VICE United States
The Child-Rape Assembly Line | VICE United States
shocking story of rape of Jewish boy in ritual baths. a brave man whistle-blowing.
shocking story of rape of Jewish boy in ritual baths. a brave man whistle-blowing.
Friday, November 8, 2013
Tuesday, November 5, 2013
Monday, November 4, 2013
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
Murphy report ‘highly critical’, ‘dismissive’, ‘sarcastic’, towards Catholic clergy - Religious News & Affairs | The Irish Times - Tue, Oct 29, 2013
Friday, October 18, 2013
Friday, October 11, 2013
Saturday, October 5, 2013
Remembering abuse survivors - Letters | The Irish Times - Sat, Oct 05, 2013
Remembering abuse survivors - Letters | The Irish Times - Sat, Oct 05, 2013
the state memorial for abuse survivors still shrouded in controversy. I myself HATE the design and it sticks in my gullet really since neither state nor religious orders give a toss about the victims. this is just stage managed PR no more!
the state memorial for abuse survivors still shrouded in controversy. I myself HATE the design and it sticks in my gullet really since neither state nor religious orders give a toss about the victims. this is just stage managed PR no more!
Wednesday, October 2, 2013
Friday, September 20, 2013
First female bishop 'blind sided' by appointment - RTÉ News
First female bishop 'blind sided' by appointment - RTÉ News
not strictly abuse issues...its a good development instead.
not strictly abuse issues...its a good development instead.
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
Monday, September 2, 2013
Thursday, August 29, 2013
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
Sunday, August 25, 2013
Saturday, August 24, 2013
Friday, August 16, 2013
Fierce Opposition by the Catholic Church Helps Block Bill to Allow Sex Abuse Victims More Time to Sue / Los Angeles Times | Voice of the Faithful ®
Fierce Opposition by the Catholic Church Helps Block Bill to Allow Sex Abuse Victims More Time to Sue / Los Angeles Times | Voice of the Faithful ®
...and the Catholic Church says it 'cares' for victims!
...and the Catholic Church says it 'cares' for victims!
Wednesday, August 14, 2013
THE CELTIC DIABLO: Reverend Brendan Smyth O.Prae | Patrick J. Wall
THE CELTIC DIABLO: Reverend Brendan Smyth O.Prae | Patrick J. Wall
Fr Mulvihill modern prophet & saint...follow HIM...report!
Fr Mulvihill modern prophet & saint...follow HIM...report!
Friday, August 9, 2013
Tuesday, August 6, 2013
Bishop Casey treated worse than pedophile priests for having affair says son | Irish News | IrishCentral
Bishop Casey treated worse than pedophile priests for having affair says son | Irish News | IrishCentral
I think his son leaves out crucial information
a) Annie Murphy , his mother was in Ireland to recuperate following miscarriage and domestic violence. Casey was a relative who was asked by Annie's father 'to care for her'.
b) Casey was asked to 'care for Annie' not have sex with her
c) he exploited her vulnerability - he was in her bed within a week
d) he put her through hell when she became pregnant - read Annie's book
e) he stole thousands of pounds from a CHARITY to pay for his son's upkeep
f) he was a BISHOP and he abandoned Annie and her son. Annie was lucky to get out of Ireland alive! The son was lucky to get out of Ireland with his mother.
So all in all I do not believe he was treated 'worse than a paedophile' and I think the son is engaging in some campaign here to make his own origins more savoury than they actually were.
Casey was a sordid man and there might be evidence he had another child who was adopted.
Sorry, I have not a shred of pity for Casey, though I do have for Annie and her son.
I think his son leaves out crucial information
a) Annie Murphy , his mother was in Ireland to recuperate following miscarriage and domestic violence. Casey was a relative who was asked by Annie's father 'to care for her'.
b) Casey was asked to 'care for Annie' not have sex with her
c) he exploited her vulnerability - he was in her bed within a week
d) he put her through hell when she became pregnant - read Annie's book
e) he stole thousands of pounds from a CHARITY to pay for his son's upkeep
f) he was a BISHOP and he abandoned Annie and her son. Annie was lucky to get out of Ireland alive! The son was lucky to get out of Ireland with his mother.
So all in all I do not believe he was treated 'worse than a paedophile' and I think the son is engaging in some campaign here to make his own origins more savoury than they actually were.
Casey was a sordid man and there might be evidence he had another child who was adopted.
Sorry, I have not a shred of pity for Casey, though I do have for Annie and her son.
Sunday, August 4, 2013
Saturday, August 3, 2013
I wanted to deck Gay Byrne over interview with mum – Casey's son - Independent.ie
I wanted to deck Gay Byrne over interview with mum – Casey's son - Independent.ie
SEE Programme going out on 8th August TV3 (Ireland)
Ann Ie Murphy /Bishop Casey "affair" (I believe he sexually abused & exploited her)
SEE Programme going out on 8th August TV3 (Ireland)
Ann Ie Murphy /Bishop Casey "affair" (I believe he sexually abused & exploited her)
'I regret he had to leave the church' - Independent.ie
'I regret he had to leave the church' - Independent.ie
Annie Murphy STILL believes she was in an "affair" with Bishop Casey. I believe he abused and exploited her. Why does she still support him?
Annie Murphy STILL believes she was in an "affair" with Bishop Casey. I believe he abused and exploited her. Why does she still support him?
Thursday, August 1, 2013
Voice from the Desert » Blog Archive » THIRTY YEARS: WHAT WE’VE LEARNED AND WHAT I’VE LEARNED, By Thomas Doyle, J.C.D., C.A.D.C., July 27, 2013
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Garda Commissioner expresses ‘regret’ at handling of abuse claims in Murphy report - Religious News & Affairs | The Irish Times - Mon, Jul 15, 2013
Garda Commissioner expresses ‘regret’ at handling of abuse claims in Murphy report - Religious News & Affairs | The Irish Times - Mon, Jul 15, 2013
The Gardaí has colluded with the Church for centuries. Its about time we sorted this out!
The Gardaí has colluded with the Church for centuries. Its about time we sorted this out!
Friday, July 19, 2013
Newstalk - Revealed: Sisters of Mercy have assets of €1.8 billion
Newstalk - Revealed: Sisters of Mercy have assets of €1.8 billion
the religious order in irelabd which refuses to compensate women in Magdalene laundries , three other orders refuse too.
shameful
the religious order in irelabd which refuses to compensate women in Magdalene laundries , three other orders refuse too.
shameful
Tuesday, July 16, 2013
Monday, July 15, 2013
Video: Journalist Michael D'Antonio | Watch Tavis Smiley Online | PBS Video
Video: Journalist Michael D'Antonio | Watch Tavis Smiley Online | PBS Video
book on the Catholic Church must view video..
book on the Catholic Church must view video..
The Zimmerman Acquittal: America's Racist God | Religion Dispatches
The Zimmerman Acquittal: America's Racist God | Religion Dispatches
I'm disgusted with the outcome of the Zimmerman Acquittal. surely the GOOD white Americans must fight racial prejudice, injustice a vile white men who kill and injure black people.
I'm disgusted with the outcome of the Zimmerman Acquittal. surely the GOOD white Americans must fight racial prejudice, injustice a vile white men who kill and injure black people.
Geoffrey Dickens, the doctor, and the vicar | spotlight
Geoffrey Dickens, the doctor, and the vicar | spotlight
A sordid underworld that is continuing today.
A sordid underworld that is continuing today.
Sunday, July 14, 2013
Friday, July 12, 2013
Thursday, July 11, 2013
SNAP World Conference Dublin 2013 - Videos of Speaker Presentations
SNAP World Conference Dublin 2013 - Videos of Speaker Presentations
I am reluctant to put this up since it was here that SNAP refused to let me put up my posters on 'clergy sexual abuse of adults'. humiliated me and totally rejected an an irish woman's life long effort to get this on the agenda.
however I must also remember that each speaker her is a great advocate for survivors and every presentation worth hearing.
but I can never 'like' SNAP again.
I am reluctant to put this up since it was here that SNAP refused to let me put up my posters on 'clergy sexual abuse of adults'. humiliated me and totally rejected an an irish woman's life long effort to get this on the agenda.
however I must also remember that each speaker her is a great advocate for survivors and every presentation worth hearing.
but I can never 'like' SNAP again.
Wednesday, July 10, 2013
UN tells Vatican to hand over details of child sex abuse cases - Telegraph
UN tells Vatican to hand over details of child sex abuse cases - Telegraph
It's all gonna unravel...wait and see!
It's all gonna unravel...wait and see!
Tuesday, July 9, 2013
Former priest jailed for ten years for sexual assault of 18 boys - Independent.ie
Former priest jailed for ten years for sexual assault of 18 boys - Independent.ie
Who is tracking these guys? How come he was in London & Brazil?
Who is tracking these guys? How come he was in London & Brazil?
Monday, July 8, 2013
Saturday, July 6, 2013
BBC News - Priest James Donaghy jailed for two years for further abuse
BBC News - Priest James Donaghy jailed for two years for further abuse
Northern Ireland. Interesting manipulative conversation with victim. They sure can invent good lines!
Northern Ireland. Interesting manipulative conversation with victim. They sure can invent good lines!
Monday, July 1, 2013
BBC News - Vatican bank director and deputy resign amid scandal
BBC News - Vatican bank director and deputy resign amid scandal
that's OUR money! or as they say in Ireland these days "Give us the moolah" !
that's OUR money! or as they say in Ireland these days "Give us the moolah" !
Sunday, June 30, 2013
Saturday, June 29, 2013
Dominican priest jailed for sex abuse - Irish News, World News & More | The Irish Times - Fri, Feb 22, 2013
Dominican priest jailed for sex abuse - Irish News, World News & More | The Irish Times - Fri, Feb 22, 2013
another derisory sentence for child sexual abuse. when are the sentences going to reflect the crime and harm done?
another derisory sentence for child sexual abuse. when are the sentences going to reflect the crime and harm done?
Thursday, June 27, 2013
Laundry compensation deal slammed - Yahoo! News UK#WxLanBg#WxLanBg
Laundry compensation deal slammed - Yahoo! News UK#WxLanBg#WxLanBg
Women in the Irish Laundaries are unhappy with the compensation package. I think they are justified. spending a year in one of these places and only getting 20,000e is quite unbelievable!
these were dreadful places. The hardships were enormous, the lasting damage was life-long/is life-long. 20,000e will not last long. Not the way Ireland is now and what these women NEED.
I think we should all be concerned.
Not sure who the guy is leading this group but wish the women were 'leading themselves'.
Women in the Irish Laundaries are unhappy with the compensation package. I think they are justified. spending a year in one of these places and only getting 20,000e is quite unbelievable!
these were dreadful places. The hardships were enormous, the lasting damage was life-long/is life-long. 20,000e will not last long. Not the way Ireland is now and what these women NEED.
I think we should all be concerned.
Not sure who the guy is leading this group but wish the women were 'leading themselves'.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013
Report illuminates eight decades of Capuchin province's poor handling of sex abuse | National Catholic Reporter
Report illuminates eight decades of Capuchin province's poor handling of sex abuse | National Catholic Reporter
it's time we scrutinised the religious orders - the Marianists next please!
it's time we scrutinised the religious orders - the Marianists next please!
Sunday, June 16, 2013
Parishioners protest Roman Catholic decision to investigate sex abuse allegation against priest | Antigua Observer Newspaper
Parishioners protest Roman Catholic decision to investigate sex abuse allegation against priest | Antigua Observer Newspaper
"we know he is innocent" how do they 'know', haven't we heard this before. Still it is the PRIEST who is believed not the alleged victim.
"we know he is innocent" how do they 'know', haven't we heard this before. Still it is the PRIEST who is believed not the alleged victim.
Saturday, June 15, 2013
COUNTRIES WITH CONFIRMED SEXUAL ABUSE
COUNTRIES WITH CONFIRMED SEXUAL ABUSE
Bishops who have resigned...interestingly no UK named bishops...because so far we haven't made anything 'stick' .
Bishops who have resigned...interestingly no UK named bishops...because so far we haven't made anything 'stick' .
Catholica Spiritual Marketplace
Catholica Spiritual Marketplace
Geoffrey Robinson is a sexual abuse survivor, A Catholic Bishop shunned (largely) by his own 'Brothers in Christ' (sic).
I've met him, a holy, gentle and lovely man. This book is bound to be a stunner.
Geoffrey Robinson is a sexual abuse survivor, A Catholic Bishop shunned (largely) by his own 'Brothers in Christ' (sic).
I've met him, a holy, gentle and lovely man. This book is bound to be a stunner.
McDonald calls on Justice Minister to address serious concerns raised by UNCAT on the Magdalene’s Inter-Departmental Committee Report | Sinn Féin#.UbuOVeWnOok.facebook
McDonald calls on Justice Minister to address serious concerns raised by UNCAT on the Magdalene’s Inter-Departmental Committee Report | Sinn Féin#.UbuOVeWnOok.facebook
The Magdalene report was seriously flawed. The Irish Government need to give some REAL answers. The report was not GOOD ENOUGH!
The Magdalene report was seriously flawed. The Irish Government need to give some REAL answers. The report was not GOOD ENOUGH!
Thursday, June 13, 2013
Int'l Court Case Against Ex-Pope Fizzles - ABC News
Int'l Court Case Against Ex-Pope Fizzles - ABC News
no one willing to take on the Vatican - too hot to handle! Very disappointing. This happens when Law does not equal Justice!
no one willing to take on the Vatican - too hot to handle! Very disappointing. This happens when Law does not equal Justice!
Tuesday, June 11, 2013
Monday, June 10, 2013
Mayo Marist brother acquitted of sexually abusing students
Mayo Marist brother acquitted of sexually abusing students
I fail to understand how the judge can say severe violence was 'not a crime at the time' . Violence against children is always a crime and assault, surely, has been on the statute books for decades??
I fail to understand how the judge can say severe violence was 'not a crime at the time' . Violence against children is always a crime and assault, surely, has been on the statute books for decades??
Friday, June 7, 2013
Coalition failing to protect girls
Coalition failing to protect girls
UK failing to protect women & Girls.
Liz Kelly was my PhD professor. Always very good research .
UK failing to protect women & Girls.
Liz Kelly was my PhD professor. Always very good research .
Thursday, June 6, 2013
Monday, June 3, 2013
Saturday, June 1, 2013
Thursday, May 30, 2013
Father Andrew Greeley, dead at 85. - Lynn Sweet
Father Andrew Greeley, dead at 85. - Lynn Sweet
one of the first to support clergy sexual abuse survivors
one of the first to support clergy sexual abuse survivors
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
Did you miss the Prime Time creche expose? Here’s what happened
Did you miss the Prime Time creche expose? Here’s what happened
not clergy abuse but another scandal in Ireland. abuse of toddlers in crèches .
I watched it in the studio and was part of the discussion .
it was horrendous viewing
not clergy abuse but another scandal in Ireland. abuse of toddlers in crèches .
I watched it in the studio and was part of the discussion .
it was horrendous viewing
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Cardinal George Pell has confessed to creation of false documents and 'reprehensible' cover-ups of child sex abuse | Herald Sun
Cardinal George Pell has confessed to creation of false documents and 'reprehensible' cover-ups of child sex abuse | Herald Sun
Hypocrite and I'm afraid I wouldn't trust anything this man says.
Hypocrite and I'm afraid I wouldn't trust anything this man says.
Monday, May 27, 2013
BBC News - Australia cardinal apologises over clergy child sex abuse
BBC News - Australia cardinal apologises over clergy child sex abuse
I cannot say what I'd really like to say about Pell. take his apology with a pinch of salt.
I cannot say what I'd really like to say about Pell. take his apology with a pinch of salt.
Nurse pleads guilty to murdering 11 in Sydney fire - RTÉ News
Nurse pleads guilty to murdering 11 in Sydney fire - RTÉ News
sometimes I post professional abuse issues here. this is truly horrific
sometimes I post professional abuse issues here. this is truly horrific
Sunday, May 26, 2013
Newark Monsignor Loses Job for Failing to Stop Priest’s Work With Children - NYTimes.com
Newark Monsignor Loses Job for Failing to Stop Priest’s Work With Children - NYTimes.com
Well, don't know whether he's the fall guy, but Myers appears still to be in post!?
Well, don't know whether he's the fall guy, but Myers appears still to be in post!?
Friday, May 24, 2013
Jailed GP used Bond-style watch to film sex assaults - Independent.ie
Jailed GP used Bond-style watch to film sex assaults - Independent.ie
putting this up to pass on more professionals who sexually abuse. 12 Years not enough in my view!
putting this up to pass on more professionals who sexually abuse. 12 Years not enough in my view!
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
The Churches still need their exorcists - Telegraph
The Churches still need their exorcists - Telegraph
This is all we disabled people need1 to link disability to devil inside us is dark ages stuff1 We DON@T need this ....we really, really don't. more likely the poor man was objecting too!
This is all we disabled people need1 to link disability to devil inside us is dark ages stuff1 We DON@T need this ....we really, really don't. more likely the poor man was objecting too!
Low number of prosecutions in clerical child abuse cases noted - Religious News & Affairs | The Irish Times - Mon, May 20, 2013
Low number of prosecutions in clerical child abuse cases noted - Religious News & Affairs | The Irish Times - Mon, May 20, 2013
I hate the constant reference to the reported abuse being 'Historic'...it's NEVER 'historic' for the victim.
This word serves to tell us or imply "therefore not so serious".
using the word 'historic' relentlessly is in fact DENIAL of the reality. DENIAL of the harm, and a not so generous attempt to downgrade the victims report. It is, in fact, rather obscene.
I hate the constant reference to the reported abuse being 'Historic'...it's NEVER 'historic' for the victim.
This word serves to tell us or imply "therefore not so serious".
using the word 'historic' relentlessly is in fact DENIAL of the reality. DENIAL of the harm, and a not so generous attempt to downgrade the victims report. It is, in fact, rather obscene.
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Mea Maxima Culpa | From Academy Award Winning director, Alex Gibney
Mea Maxima Culpa | From Academy Award Winning director, Alex Gibney
If you want a truly overarching 'truth-telling' documentary of the evil corruption at the heart of the Vatican...watch this film documentary.
It is probably the most damning documentary ever to be produced. It's a documentary that should be in every cinema, on every TV station world-wide.
If you want a truly overarching 'truth-telling' documentary of the evil corruption at the heart of the Vatican...watch this film documentary.
It is probably the most damning documentary ever to be produced. It's a documentary that should be in every cinema, on every TV station world-wide.
Fr. Jim Connell of Sheboygan, other clergy “whistleblowers” launch new national campaign today « SNAP Wisconsin
Fr. Jim Connell of Sheboygan, other clergy “whistleblowers” launch new national campaign today « SNAP Wisconsin
always remembering of course that the first whistleblowers were the brave and courageous VICTIMS!
always remembering of course that the first whistleblowers were the brave and courageous VICTIMS!
rideout jailed
Paedophile Canon Rideout Jailed for 10 Years
Canon Gordon Rideout a priest who abused both girls and boys throughout the 1960s and 70s has been jailed for ten years after being found guilty of thirty-six separate sex offences.
The Church knew about all of these allegations from 17 different people - some for many years. Rideout's access to children was never restricted - he was never suspended, even as a precaution, and was allowed to continue to have access to schools until 18 months ago.
He was investigated in the late 90s and early 2000s with the area bishop even attending a police interview with him and his blemished CRB not being dealt with appropriately.
That bishop has just been cleared of any wrong-doing - apparently there is no case to answer
Still, nobody who was in authority in the Church has been held to account for their failings
Paraclete Report
Paraclete Report
We should do a good examination of Irish & UK clergy who attended Sroud, Glos, UK and were reassigned into ministry.
We should do a good examination of Irish & UK clergy who attended Sroud, Glos, UK and were reassigned into ministry.
BBC News - Gordon Rideout child sex abuse victims not believed
BBC News - Gordon Rideout child sex abuse victims not believed
Church of England, UK ...Cover-up....not surprising really. When will Churches support the victims?
Church of England, UK ...Cover-up....not surprising really. When will Churches support the victims?
BBC News - Sex abuse priest Gordon Rideout jailed for 10 years
BBC News - Sex abuse priest Gordon Rideout jailed for 10 years
Good result. MACSAS has been working on this case in the UK. The victims are tremendously courageous and only for THEIR persistence none of this would have happened.
'Cover-up' not just the 'name of the game' for the catholic church , all churches do it!
We got to realise that 'religion' is not the same as 'Christianity' and that when 'Christianity' becomes 'religion' it is corrupted.
Good result. MACSAS has been working on this case in the UK. The victims are tremendously courageous and only for THEIR persistence none of this would have happened.
'Cover-up' not just the 'name of the game' for the catholic church , all churches do it!
We got to realise that 'religion' is not the same as 'Christianity' and that when 'Christianity' becomes 'religion' it is corrupted.
Monday, May 20, 2013
Anglican Bishop of Grafton quits over 'failings' in child abuse complaints
Anglican Bishop of Grafton quits over 'failings' in child abuse complaints
A statement on behalf of the Anglican Diocese of Grafton says it commends Bishop Slater for his ''honest acknowledgement of mistakes'' and affirm him in his ''generosity and courage'' in resigning
Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/nsw/anglican-bishop-of-grafton-quits-over-failings-in-child-abuse-complaints-20130518-2jsx4.html#ixzz2TocxV9cI
Not entirely sure why the Bishop has 'generosity and courage'. That's not what he's doing here. He acknowledges he failed CHILDREN. These were NOT 'mistakes' and every time a Church calls failure in 'duty of care' 'mistakes', they deny they have a moral and legal duty to report sex offenders. Every time the word 'mistake' is used they belittle the offence, downgrade it to a 'minor' when it is a MAJOR criminal offence we are discussing. The ignoring of the rape, buggery, sexual assaults of CHILDREN by clergymen is not a 'mistake'...it is complicity.
I would need to meet this Bishop face-to-face before I could judge whether or not the resignation was from his broken heart or from shame or from acknowledgement of his wrong doing.
A statement on behalf of the Anglican Diocese of Grafton says it commends Bishop Slater for his ''honest acknowledgement of mistakes'' and affirm him in his ''generosity and courage'' in resigning
Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/nsw/anglican-bishop-of-grafton-quits-over-failings-in-child-abuse-complaints-20130518-2jsx4.html#ixzz2TocxV9cI
Not entirely sure why the Bishop has 'generosity and courage'. That's not what he's doing here. He acknowledges he failed CHILDREN. These were NOT 'mistakes' and every time a Church calls failure in 'duty of care' 'mistakes', they deny they have a moral and legal duty to report sex offenders. Every time the word 'mistake' is used they belittle the offence, downgrade it to a 'minor' when it is a MAJOR criminal offence we are discussing. The ignoring of the rape, buggery, sexual assaults of CHILDREN by clergymen is not a 'mistake'...it is complicity.
I would need to meet this Bishop face-to-face before I could judge whether or not the resignation was from his broken heart or from shame or from acknowledgement of his wrong doing.
Sunday, May 19, 2013
Saturday, May 18, 2013
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Catholic priest suspended for whistle-blowing on sex abuse : rabble
Catholic priest suspended for whistle-blowing on sex abuse : rabble
I think I posted this before but am posting again. Too serious not to
I think I posted this before but am posting again. Too serious not to
Catholic priest suspended for whistle-blowing on sex abuse : rabble
Catholic priest suspended for whistle-blowing on sex abuse : rabble
I think I posted this before but am posting again. Too serious not to
I think I posted this before but am posting again. Too serious not to
Bethany Home survivors: ‘State ignored us as children, and is still ignoring us’
Bethany Home survivors: ‘State ignored us as children, and is still ignoring us’
irish children abused in protestant children's home ignored
irish children abused in protestant children's home ignored
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
RTÉ News - Primetime Documents
RTÉ News - Primetime Documents
what happened in a protestant children's home in Ireland. This government refusing to acknowledge them!
well we're a CATHOLIC country!
This sort of sectarianism makes my blood boil. abuse is abuse...no religious monopoly on that!
what happened in a protestant children's home in Ireland. This government refusing to acknowledge them!
well we're a CATHOLIC country!
This sort of sectarianism makes my blood boil. abuse is abuse...no religious monopoly on that!
Sunday, May 12, 2013
BBC London 94.9 - Inspirit with Jumoke Fashola, Age of consent, young people attending church and the Reverie Choir
BBC London 94.9 - Inspirit with Jumoke Fashola, Age of consent, young people attending church and the Reverie Choir
You can hear me on the 'InSpirit' programme this morning. I'm about 3/4 way in.
Good programme
You can hear me on the 'InSpirit' programme this morning. I'm about 3/4 way in.
Good programme
Friday, May 10, 2013
Thursday, May 9, 2013
Systermans: Father Wilfred Systermans sac | Sylvia's Site
Systermans: Father Wilfred Systermans sac | Sylvia's Site
if anyone has any information about fr Wilfred please let me know. on going inquiry needs more information. especially from the UK where he is believed to have also served.
if anyone has any information about fr Wilfred please let me know. on going inquiry needs more information. especially from the UK where he is believed to have also served.
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
BBC News - Police cautions issued for sex crimes, arson and robbery
BBC News - Police cautions issued for sex crimes, arson and robbery
bizarre. no wonder we don't make headway tackling rape and sex offenders if the very people we entrust to safeguard us are issuing cautions.
bizarre. no wonder we don't make headway tackling rape and sex offenders if the very people we entrust to safeguard us are issuing cautions.
Monday, May 6, 2013
Uganda priest ostracized for publicizing sexual abuse - latimes.com
Uganda priest ostracized for publicizing sexual abuse - latimes.com
highlight this good priests campaign and write to the Ugandan hierarchy.
protect our children, wherever they are
highlight this good priests campaign and write to the Ugandan hierarchy.
protect our children, wherever they are
Sunday, May 5, 2013
Saturday, May 4, 2013
Mendham clergy sex abuse memorial rededicated in show of support - New Jersey Hills Newspaper: Observer-Tribune News
Mendham clergy sex abuse memorial rededicated in show of support - New Jersey Hills Newspaper: Observer-Tribune News
somewhat better than the stone we have in Ireland on the penitential island of Lough Derg!
somewhat better than the stone we have in Ireland on the penitential island of Lough Derg!
Catholic bishops 'knew of 20 sex abuse allegations by priests' | World news | guardian.co.uk
Catholic bishops 'knew of 20 sex abuse allegations by priests' | World news | guardian.co.uk
Scotland in the news. Cover-up still needs exposing.
Scotland in the news. Cover-up still needs exposing.
Anglican Communion News Service - Digest: Clergy sexual abuse raised as issue at UN meeting
Anglican Communion News Service - Digest: Clergy sexual abuse raised as issue at UN meeting
Abuse of women by clergy highlighted at UN. FANTASTIC.
SNAP may censor me but the UN taking the lead!
Abuse of women by clergy highlighted at UN. FANTASTIC.
SNAP may censor me but the UN taking the lead!
Clergy sex abuse settlements top $2.5 billion nationwide
Clergy sex abuse settlements top $2.5 billion nationwide
we don't get those sorts of settlements here in Ireland. Where victims, despite 'settlements' are still left struggling with their lives.
Disgraceful that here in Ireland poor victims have not the proper means to fight and gain better settlements.
we don't get those sorts of settlements here in Ireland. Where victims, despite 'settlements' are still left struggling with their lives.
Disgraceful that here in Ireland poor victims have not the proper means to fight and gain better settlements.
Holy Hell - one family's story of sexual abuse by their priest - ABC Newcastle NSW - Australian Broadcasting Corporation
Holy Hell - one family's story of sexual abuse by their priest - ABC Newcastle NSW - Australian Broadcasting Corporation
in view of the commission of enquiry now going on in australia
in view of the commission of enquiry now going on in australia
Retired bishop accepts criticisms in clerical abuse report | BreakingNews.ie
Retired bishop accepts criticisms in clerical abuse report | BreakingNews.ie
yeh and how many kids was he responsible for being abused? accountability?
yeh and how many kids was he responsible for being abused? accountability?
Catholic church outlines new child protection measures | BreakingNews.ie
Catholic church outlines new child protection measures | BreakingNews.ie
sadly Ian Elliot leaves his job this summer. hope someone with guts and strength takes his place.
sadly Ian Elliot leaves his job this summer. hope someone with guts and strength takes his place.
Friday, May 3, 2013
Thursday, May 2, 2013
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
SNAP World Conference Part 1 : The hurt I felt.
SNAP World Conference:
Dublin.
‘Accountability’
26th, 27th, 28th April 2013
Part 1: The Hurt I felt
This ‘World ‘ Conference has just ended in Dublin, Ireland. An occasion to meet other survivors coming from around the globe. To learn what was happening about clergy sexual abuse in the Catholic Church. To hear what survivors were doing.
It should have been a World collaborative effort to gather resources, experience , ideas and skills to tackle clergy sexual abuse of children and adults.
My introduction to the conference, weeks before, set the ‘tone’ for me. I always enjoy such events, for in the past it felt like I was ‘coming home’ to a group of sisters and brothers who shared a common pain and common assault …we would ‘be’ together. It never mattered who was running the event for that was immaterial. It mattered that we were all together, respected and heard.
This conference was different. It felt different ever since , weeks before I had asked to present my PhD work on ‘Clergy Sexual exploitation of Adult women‘. I was told ‘no’, I was told the programme was fixed. Then I asked if I could put up a poster session and I never received a reply. So I prepared three large display boards of what 63 survivors of sexual violation by clergy said in my research. I felt I was carrying and conveying the voices of these women. This I had promised to do after my research was completed. I promised to convey my findings (their experience) worldwide. So in Dublin, I felt there was such an opportunity to voice their words through these displays. What’s more, now being ill and in a wheelchair a world conference was at my door and it would be ‘easy’ to do!
On the Friday evening when I arrived, I asked a senior SNAP person could I put them up. The answer ‘NO’. why, I asked, dumbfounded…why not?
“because this conference is about SNAP”, was the reply.
This shot through me like a bullet. And it hurt. I said , rather loudly, “This is NOT about SNAP this conference is about victims”.
The next morning I got up a 6am, finished one board and put them on the walls. To hell with ‘permission’ I decided, I was charged to voice voices and I was going to do it.
The SNAP person caught me in the corridor; “they will have to come down” she said angrily. This time my mood was even more raging. ‘I am NOT taking these boards down, you can, but I am not”.
She took them down, not only took them down but put the sticky sides on the back onto the fronts of the next board so that in separating them the words there were torn, ‘abused’. And I mean this, taking down those boards was, in my eyes, another violation of women whom clergy had sexually manipulated, tormented and controlled. SNAP was ‘controlling’ these women’s voices again. I was raging and very tearful, for I am such a victim, so is my twin and so are the 63 women of that research, and other voices taken from newspapers and other reports.
That was Saturday. I was so upset and could not comprehend the SNAP logic/rationale. Should we not, as sisters and brothers equally violated, not just be equally sharing our voices? Apparently not. I told Mannix Flynn, the Chair of the Conference, an Irish survivor, he said “leave it to me”, but I heard no more.
On Sunday morning I spotted a ‘general’ table where leaflets from people’s organisations were being left. There was not a lot, but I assumed that this was the public display area so propped up my boards on the table and a nun helped me.
Several participants came to look, and I talked to one person who was supporting some women in Canada. Then that SNAP woman, Barbara Dorris, came along and took them down…again…a stony unwavering resolve on her face. She took them down and hid them behind the table.
Seeing them there welled up in me the deepest tears, the deepest anger and the deepest love for those women whose ‘voices’, experiences were now shuffled to behind a table and all because…’This Conference was about SNAP’.
I stormed in deepest distress to the auditorium and told about 60 gathered
“I just want to tell you that I have not been allowed put up my display boards on clergy sexual abuse of adults because I’m told this conference is about SNAP. No, no, it is NOT, it is NOT about SNAP, it is about victims of clergy sexual abuse. I want you to know this and say something about it”…
at the end I was sobbing…uncontrollably. I left and in the corridor roared at Barbara Dorris, and I don’t regret it…”Shame , Shame, Shame…” I shouted.
Mannix Flynn, the person chairing the conference rather manfully , too ‘manfully’ for my taste, told me to ‘take time out’ . I said, “Mannix, don’t tell me what to do, I’m angry, I’m upset” and I went back into the auditorium, but the sobbing continued and I felt that awful sense of powerlessness and lack of control of my abuse, and those women’s abuse and it was just…awful. Deirdre Kelly, from I in 4 Ireland came up and gave me a hug, into her dark black hair I sobbed and cried “how can they do this?”, “it’s the woman’s voices”? “how can they take them off the wall?”
Of course there were no answers. No answers to the scene of survivors controlling other survivors. No answers to the shame of a survivor group feeling their ‘corporate image’, their ‘organisation’, their ‘club’, was in fact more important than victims voices from another place (mostly the UK, and some Irish amongst those 63 women on my boards).
But then the last speaker spoke, (Fr) Tom Doyle, during question time strongly told the participants that the work we do is not about ourselves, nor about our organisations…it was about the victims, children and adults. The victims were the focus and must remain the focus. Mannix Flynn in summing up said likewise. Mannix gave me the microphone and I did not say anything about SNAP or Barbara Dorris, or the boards Id prepared and ignominiously taken down…I spoke of POWER, I spoke of misuse of power and how as survivors, as people we needed to understand power, power not only in our churches, by clergy, but power in our doctors, our therapists, our friends, our organisations. I reminded people there was good and bad power and we needed to understand it.
Now it’s Monday, the weekend is over, I am exhausted.
However I am contemplating the dangers of power, of the mis-use of power. I am pondering the dynamic of oppressed becoming oppressors. I am thinking deeply of the whole area of ‘responsibility’ and where we , as survivors, are called in doing advocacy or campaigning work.
We are not called to self aggrandisement, we are not called to build corporate empires, huge organisations, we are not called to get the next award or praise for our work, we are not called to ’take over’ another’s voice, control the voices of victims/survivors. We are not called to sweep in and show or tell other victims/survivors ’how to do it’, so that we get the praise and power for helping others, we are not called to replicate mis-use of power.
So what are we called to do? It is very simple. We are called to serve. We are called to uphold the oppressed, to voice for the voiceless, to facilitate voices of the voiceless. We are called, yes, to educate and share to share the stories of shame, guilt, and humiliation of those so harmed they cannot do this themselves.
But we cannot ’pick and chose’ which voices should be heard and which should not. Censorship of voices can only be on the basis of preventing more damage, more harm…can only be if the ’voice’ is abusive, violent or dangerous to others.
But the SNAP conference had voices aplenty and in part 2 I want to share those voices of prophecy, of wisdom, of courage and of strength.
The voice of survivors still challenges, still calls for justice. And this voice cannot be stifled.
Written by me,
Victim/survivor of clergy sexual violation as an adult.
Go to part 2 read about the good of the SNAP conference
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
Monday, April 8, 2013
Vatican Receives Yearly 600 Claims Against Abusive Priests; Pope Francis Seeks Determined Action vs Sex Abuse Cases - International Business Times#.UWLEBqKG3mY#.UWLEBqKG3mY#.UWLEBqKG3mY#.UWLEBqKG3mY
Vatican Receives Yearly 600 Claims Against Abusive Priests; Pope Francis Seeks Determined Action vs Sex Abuse Cases - International Business Times#.UWLEBqKG3mY#.UWLEBqKG3mY#.UWLEBqKG3mY#.UWLEBqKG3mY
I think it's a huge jump to say the word 'determined' means no more secrecy! what twaddle!
he said no more than his predecessor. and certainly gave no new instructions other than to 'seek determined action'.
Huh...not impressed. Can't be fooled!
I think it's a huge jump to say the word 'determined' means no more secrecy! what twaddle!
he said no more than his predecessor. and certainly gave no new instructions other than to 'seek determined action'.
Huh...not impressed. Can't be fooled!
Sunday, April 7, 2013
Story of Boston Globe team who exposed sex abuse in Catholic Church hits big screen
Story of Boston Globe team who exposed sex abuse in Catholic Church hits big screen
Should money be made out of this misery?
Is movie motive cash or care?
Should money be made out of this misery?
Is movie motive cash or care?
Friday, April 5, 2013
letter to irish times today - pope francis on clergy sexual abuse
Dear Sir,
Pope Francis has given his first speech on clergy sexual abuse today. He directs that 'decisive action' be taken against sex offending clergy, that they should be punished and victims 'helped'. All this is for the good of the Church and it's message.
There is nothing new in this rethoric. It is the same old message that clergy sexual abuse is about the individual sex offender clergy's responsibility.
Pope Francis neatly sidelines and ignores the practice and culture of secrecy, cover-up, movement of clergy from parish to parish, Diocese to Diocese and from Country to Country which enabled hundreds and thousands of victims to be violated by those clergy they supported.
Pope Francis could have, today and given us a real message of 'action';
"We will admit our role in the violation of our children, we will accept responsibility for our actions in the past, we will uncover and unmask the secrets in our files, cupboards and desk drawers, we will not harbour the abusers, we will co-operate with solicitors, police and courts, we will not stand behind lawyers seeking to hide the truth, we will reach out to victims, we will give them hope, we will create ways of real mending of the broken pieces in their lives...we will change our ways."
Now that would have been the message of change from the Vatican. It looks, from our perspective, today, that this Pope's humility in his dress, his actions and his words does not extend to actions calling Bishops and Cardinals to account for what they did. Nor is there any admission of the Vatican's role in clergy sexual violation of children...
This is hugely disappointing, from a man who appeared capable of turning the tables in the temple.
Yours Sincerely
Dr Margaret Kennedy
Founder MACSAS www.macsas.org.uk
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
Justice for Magdalenes publishes survivor guide - Social Affairs & News from Ireland & Abroad | The Irish Times - Tue, Apr 02, 2013
Justice for Magdalenes publishes survivor guide - Social Affairs & News from Ireland & Abroad | The Irish Times - Tue, Apr 02, 2013
please share on all your sites as those women who live abroad must know how to contact the redress scheme.
thank you
please share on all your sites as those women who live abroad must know how to contact the redress scheme.
thank you
Tuesday, April 2, 2013
The One Who Got Away - The Independent Media Group
The One Who Got Away - The Independent Media Group
no one takes responsibility! No one DID anything. SHAME
no one takes responsibility! No one DID anything. SHAME
Thursday, March 28, 2013
Lily Cole seduces a vicar and gets burnt at the stake in Sacrilige video - Independent.ie
Lily Cole seduces a vicar and gets burnt at the stake in Sacrilige video - Independent.ie
This is all we bloody need! Both from a clergy sexual abuse of adults perspective AND from a feminist perspective. I won't be watching!
This is all we bloody need! Both from a clergy sexual abuse of adults perspective AND from a feminist perspective. I won't be watching!
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
David Cameron: dumping his support for sexually abused kids? | David Hencke
David Cameron: dumping his support for sexually abused kids? | David Hencke
Is David Cameron the worst UK Prime Minister ever...YES, Yes, Yes....
Is David Cameron the worst UK Prime Minister ever...YES, Yes, Yes....
Friday, March 22, 2013
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
Actor Roache: Sex abuse victims paying for past lives; abusers should be forgiven | BreakingNews.ie
Actor Roache: Sex abuse victims paying for past lives; abusers should be forgiven | BreakingNews.ie
This actor is an 'icon' of people who watch 'Coronation street' in the UK I never liked it myself.
The guy appears to have lost the plot. Whats in his cupboard?
This actor is an 'icon' of people who watch 'Coronation street' in the UK I never liked it myself.
The guy appears to have lost the plot. Whats in his cupboard?
Monday, March 18, 2013
BBC News - 'Paedophilia not criminal condition' says Durban cardinal
BBC News - 'Paedophilia not criminal condition' says Durban cardinal
mmmnnn ell then why do most countries call it a crime? Are they all wrong. I happen to think it's BOTH. I think paedophilia is an entrenched disorder but I also think most sex offenders KNOW it's wrong and chose to NOT seek help and abuse children and hide what they are doing. Why else do they scare the shite out of children? They are devious, manipulative dangerous people who destroy lives. They need to be kept well away from children.
mmmnnn ell then why do most countries call it a crime? Are they all wrong. I happen to think it's BOTH. I think paedophilia is an entrenched disorder but I also think most sex offenders KNOW it's wrong and chose to NOT seek help and abuse children and hide what they are doing. Why else do they scare the shite out of children? They are devious, manipulative dangerous people who destroy lives. They need to be kept well away from children.
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Only two papal candidates 'clean' of sex abuse scandals, says victims group - Telegraph
Only two papal candidates 'clean' of sex abuse scandals, says victims group - Telegraph
I would agree, though I think Archbishop Martin hasissues about confronting. as far as we know he's never covered up per se but at times he's not been as forceful as he could have been. I know him over my sisters case and he was a 'reluctant' ambassador between my twin & religious order. I mean 'reluctant'. !!
I would agree, though I think Archbishop Martin hasissues about confronting. as far as we know he's never covered up per se but at times he's not been as forceful as he could have been. I know him over my sisters case and he was a 'reluctant' ambassador between my twin & religious order. I mean 'reluctant'. !!
BBC News - Rome conclave: Cardinals to begin voting for new Pope
BBC News - Rome conclave: Cardinals to begin voting for new Pope
Do I care? Not a bit! don't trust any of them.
Do I care? Not a bit! don't trust any of them.
Monday, March 11, 2013
Limerick paramedic to pay colleague €5,000 after harassment - Leader Local - Limerick Leader
Limerick paramedic to pay colleague €5,000 after harassment - Leader Local - Limerick Leader
'troubled history'...love to know what this means. "Sorry Judge, i couldn't help it" ...give me a break!
'troubled history'...love to know what this means. "Sorry Judge, i couldn't help it" ...give me a break!
High Court orders suspension of psychiatrist over sex-with-patients allegations - Independent.ie
High Court orders suspension of psychiatrist over sex-with-patients allegations - Independent.ie
we goot lot of these guys from overseas. seems like they think Ireland 'a soft touch'!
we goot lot of these guys from overseas. seems like they think Ireland 'a soft touch'!
BishopAccountability.Org Blocked: Access To Clergy Sex Abuse Site Limited At Vatican - WorldWide Religious News
BishopAccountability.Org Blocked: Access To Clergy Sex Abuse Site Limited At Vatican - WorldWide Religious News
well it's not in vatican's lexicon...the word 'accountability' so we are not surprised
well it's not in vatican's lexicon...the word 'accountability' so we are not surprised
Met police fail rape victims - again | Women's Views on News
Met police fail rape victims - again | Women's Views on News
Can believe it...women always failed by the system.
Can believe it...women always failed by the system.
Saturday, March 9, 2013
Magdalene Laundries: The Nuns' Story.
Magdalene Laundries: The Nuns' Story.
Magdale women in Ireland are shocked and appalled at these nuns "trying to take back what we have achieved".
They are raging!
Magdale women in Ireland are shocked and appalled at these nuns "trying to take back what we have achieved".
They are raging!
Friday, March 8, 2013
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
Boston’s Cardinal O’Malley Calls for Disciplining Bishops Who Coverup Clergy Sexual Abuse | Voice of the Faithful ®
Boston’s Cardinal O’Malley Calls for Disciplining Bishops Who Coverup Clergy Sexual Abuse | Voice of the Faithful ®
saying all the right things....to become Pope...oops cynical me!
saying all the right things....to become Pope...oops cynical me!
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
No imbalance in RTÉ debate | Irish Examiner
No imbalance in RTÉ debate | Irish Examiner
A priest tries to wield his power. Thank God Marie Collins is made of stern stuff.
Well Done Marie.
A priest tries to wield his power. Thank God Marie Collins is made of stern stuff.
Well Done Marie.
Monday, March 4, 2013
Time to start believing? Archbishop to open formal dialogue with gay Catholics - Faith - Voices - The Independent
Time to start believing? Archbishop to open formal dialogue with gay Catholics - Faith - Voices - The Independent
interesting after the Keith O'Brian Scotland hypocrisy. Vincent Nichols makes an address ! Ha! after banning the farm street masses here he is making an address! probably felt he better do something after the Keith O'brian stuff in Scotland. Don't go thinking Vincent suddenly 'seen the light' politics at its best folks!.
interesting after the Keith O'Brian Scotland hypocrisy. Vincent Nichols makes an address ! Ha! after banning the farm street masses here he is making an address! probably felt he better do something after the Keith O'brian stuff in Scotland. Don't go thinking Vincent suddenly 'seen the light' politics at its best folks!.
Cardinal O'Brien faces Vatican sexual conduct inquiry as he asks forgiveness of those he 'offended' - Home News - UK - The Independent
Cardinal O'Brien faces Vatican sexual conduct inquiry as he asks forgiveness of those he 'offended' - Home News - UK - The Independent
Epitomises the hypocrisy of the Roman Catholic Church. it disgusts me. People coming out of Church yesterday in Scotland said "we don't believe them [priest accusers]" Well, par for the course...of course.
Epitomises the hypocrisy of the Roman Catholic Church. it disgusts me. People coming out of Church yesterday in Scotland said "we don't believe them [priest accusers]" Well, par for the course...of course.
Sunday, March 3, 2013
Cavan Orphanage Fire - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Cavan Orphanage Fire - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
it is said the nuns didn't want the girls to be taken outside and seen in their nightdresses!
it is said the nuns didn't want the girls to be taken outside and seen in their nightdresses!
Saturday, March 2, 2013
Priest accuses RTÉ of imbalance in abuse row | Irish Examiner
Priest accuses RTÉ of imbalance in abuse row | Irish Examiner
Why should we be quiet about what the Pope DID'NT do?
Why should we be quiet about what the Pope DID'NT do?
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
Monday, February 25, 2013
Sunday, February 24, 2013
Friday, February 22, 2013
Clerical training fostered a predisposition to perpetrate child sexual abuse, study shows
Clerical training fostered a predisposition to perpetrate child sexual abuse, study shows
yeh well...where is the 'personal accountability' here? power, and choice?
yeh well...where is the 'personal accountability' here? power, and choice?
Ex-garda and scout leader jailed for abuse - The Irish Times - Sat, Jan 19, 2013
Ex-garda and scout leader jailed for abuse - The Irish Times - Sat, Jan 19, 2013
note also he joined a religious order. note too he sexually assaulted disabled children...6 months 'abit light' to me too!
note also he joined a religious order. note too he sexually assaulted disabled children...6 months 'abit light' to me too!
Roman Catholic Cardinal Says Priests Should Be Able to Marry | Voice of the Faithful ®
Roman Catholic Cardinal Says Priests Should Be Able to Marry | Voice of the Faithful ®
This is NOT a man I personally like...this is however one of his saner statements!
This is NOT a man I personally like...this is however one of his saner statements!
Brady under fire ahead of papal conclave | Irish Examiner
Brady under fire ahead of papal conclave | Irish Examiner
No Cardinal who failed child sexual abuse victims abused by clergy they covered up should be allowed to vote in the conclave. The devil in the conclave is hardly appropriate!
No Cardinal who failed child sexual abuse victims abused by clergy they covered up should be allowed to vote in the conclave. The devil in the conclave is hardly appropriate!
Thursday, February 21, 2013
if you were a magdalene in Irish Laundaries
Compensation/redress contact details: The contact details for this will be as follows:
Magdalen Laundry Fund
c/o Department of Justice and Equality
Montague Court
Montague Street
Dublin 2
Tel. 01-476 8649
e-mail info@idcmagdalen.ie
web sites: www.idcmagdalen.iewww.justice.ie
Magdalen Laundry Fund
c/o Department of Justice and Equality
Montague Court
Montague Street
Dublin 2
Tel. 01-476 8649
e-mail info@idcmagdalen.ie
web sites: www.idcmagdalen.iewww.justice.ie
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
The Pope resigns.
letter i wrote to Irish Times today. Prob won't be published!
Sir,
Fr Patrick McCafferty describes Pope Benedict XVI as 'our beloved Holy Father'. Whilst we may all wish that an old man have a quiet and peaceful rest before departing this world, many will have experienced great pain during his reign as Pope and before that as head of the 'Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith' (CDF) (formally the inquistorial office of the Roman Catholic Church). It is unlikely therefore he will be described as either 'beloved' or 'Holy' or 'Father' by those he ignored, blighted and castigated in his efforts to roll back Vatican II and to hide clerical child sexual abuse.
His resignation has been called 'courageous', and 'a lucid act of self-awareness', but he did not show these traits when child sexual abuse by clerics knocked on the door of the CDF . Quite the opposite. In 2001 as head of the CDF he wrote to every Bishop requiring them to report every case of clergy sexual abuse to his department and to keep it secret. The letter was considered by many as an attempt to obstruct justice, protect clergy sex offenders and keep from civil authories priests whom the Church wished to support. The abuse of children and their needs were secondary.
Despite the continuing rethoric that the Vatican 'cares' about victims and is 'stamping out clerical child sexual abuse' worldwide victims are still pleading in courts for justice. Such victims have fought, some for many years, to be heard and acknowledged, whilst others have committed suicide as church solicitors, on behalf of the church, deny their experiences and vilify them from all angles. Many victims are in penuary, distress, and in despair. Living with shame and guilt the Church has failed to heal.
Pope Benedict's attemps at 'apology' to victims of clergy sexual abuse was always 'conditional', secret meetings with anoymous victims. always on his terms. Victims were carefully chosen by a coterie of insiders.
When victims went to Rome in 2010, Italian paramilitary police with guns, blocked a boulevard leading to the Vatican to prevent clergy sexual abuse victims reaching St. Peter's Square. In my wheelchair surrounded by these paramilitaries, with crossed arms, smiles on faces and impervious to our entreaty, I wondered what victims had done to be treated as criminals' and viewed as such a threat. It was a seminal moment in my perception of the Vatican's alleged 'care' of clergy sexual abuse survivors.
After the protest myself and Brendan Butler 'escaped' the cordon but were 'detained' for 45 minutes in St Peter's Square whilst our passports were taken and scrutinised. We were in St Peter's to pray for victims, not protest, since the protest at was, by then, over. But we were not 'allowed' to do even this in peace.
If a new Pope leads from a position of a 'preferential option for clergy sexual abuse survivors', and is able to convey a true humility, with a committment to transparency, openess, truth, integrity and justice we will have some chance to repair the damage of this papacy and the papacy of JPII. Much damage has been done, and it will take a Pope of vision, to encourage broken hearts and souls to try and enter again the community of the Catholic Church.
For me the damage has been irreparable and it is with utter sadness I remain outside the walls of this Church but not outside the love of Christ. I simply have no hope that the Catholic Church can do other than present a faith that fails the marginalised, the different, the raging, who comprise the hurt people now in abundance following the reign of Pope Benedict XVI.
Yours Sincerely
Dr Margaret Kenney
Monday, February 11, 2013
Sunday, February 10, 2013
Magdalene survivors fume over ‘sorry’ Enda - Politics - Limerick Leader
Magdalene survivors fume over ‘sorry’ Enda - Politics - Limerick Leader
it's becoming increasinly clear that the mcaleese report was a whitewash. it confirmed some things but it was NOT an inquiry into what women had to endure.
it's becoming increasinly clear that the mcaleese report was a whitewash. it confirmed some things but it was NOT an inquiry into what women had to endure.
Friday, February 8, 2013
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
Magdalene nuns 'did their best' - National News, Breaking News - Independent.ie
Magdalene nuns 'did their best' - National News, Breaking News - Independent.ie
well 'their best' was not good enough...was it?
well 'their best' was not good enough...was it?
magdalene laundaries report:disability
Chapter 11:
Routes of entry to the Magdalen Laundries (C):
Heath authorities and social services
[Magdalene report some extracts relating to disability.]
44. This means that by 1929 at least 4 Magdalen Laundries were approved by the Minister for Local Government and Health as extern institutions for the
“maintenance, education or treatment” of women eligible for public assistance.
The effect of these approvals was to permit the referral of women eligible for
public assistance to the Magdalen Laundries and further, to authorise
payment of the expenses of their maintenance there.
45. The Department’s Annual Report for 1938-1939 described the categories of
people maintained in approved extern institutions during the year:
“This class comprises afflicted persons (deaf and dumb, blind, mentally
defective, etc.) unmarried mothers and persons requiring special
treatment in outside hospitals”.10
A 15-year old girl was sent to a Magdalen Laundry in the 1960s by
“[place] Health Authority”. Her only recorded family was a fostermother.
The Register records that she was undergoing treatment at
a named psychiatric hospital. After less than a month, she was
“taken by [name], social worker” to a named psychiatric hospital.
- A woman (age not recorded) who had been in a named institution
for intellectually disabled children was “sent by [name], Health
Authority” to a Magdalen Laundry in the 1960s. She remained there
approximately 4 months
123. Another case involving both the NSPCC and the Health Authorities arose in
the late 1960s, when a man sought the advice of the organisation in relation
to his daughter (aged in her twenties) and her child.46 The woman was
described in the file as:
“somewhat retarded. She wants the child placed in care and is not
interested in keeping it. This child was previously boarded out by the
[place] health authority
137. Another case, which arose in the early 1970s and also involved both the
NSPCC and the “Children’s Dept.” of a Health Board, concerned a young girl
of 14 years of age who was living with her parents.50 An initial complaint was
made to the NSPCC regarding a child being in danger. It was reported that “a
number of men were visiting the house”. The Inspector met the child’s mother
who:
“admitted having affairs with the men and some of them give her
money. She is mentally retarded. [Father’s name] does not work. He is
also retarded. The child was attending the name school in place
[named school for intellectually disabled]. ... The parents are unfit to
have the custody care or charge of their child. I shall get in touch with
the [place] Health Authority about the case”.
138. The Registers of the Religious Congregations indicate that the child was,
within a few months thereafter, admitted to a Magdalen Laundry. She was
transferred to a named psychiatric hospital from the Magdalen Laundry.
139. A subsequent file of the NSPCC – confirming on its face that a named officer of the “Children’s Dept” was the “other agenc[y] ... involved” contains records of the child’s subsequent experiences. At this point the child was 16 years of age. The file records that from psychiatric hospital, she had been discharged to her family. The NSPCC handed the case over fully to the Health Authority and no further records were kept.
160. The information identified by the Committee suggests that the vast majority of
such cases were referrals of a girl or women in employment in a hospital.
Some of these cases of referrals of a girl or woman in employment in a
hospital arise in the context of the period of supervision which followed
discharge from an Industrial or Reformatory School. Such cases are dealt
with in detail in the Chapter 10. However, it is also likely that a small number
of cases of referrals, identified in the records of the Religious Congregations as being from a hospital or a named doctor in a hospital, related to a patient in
that hospital.
161. This is difficult to establish conclusively from official records, but the most
likely circumstances of such referrals probably involved women ready for
discharge from hospital but due to homelessness or disability needed
accommodation, whether temporary or permanent.
162. In cases such as these, it appears that there may have been a practice at
some points in past decades (particularly during the periods in which welfare
provision was minimal) of referral of such patients to either the County Home
or a religious-operated institution (including, but by no means limited to
Magdalen Laundries). The Committee was informed that such a practice
certainly applied in psychiatric hospitals and that it is likely to have also
occurred in general hospitals.
163. The youngest known girl referred from a hospital or by a medical professional
was 13 years of age. The oldest was 71 years of age. The records of the
Religious Congregations suggest that there were some patients referred to
Magdalen Laundries from hospitals on the basis outlined above. Some
appear to have been intended as short-stays, while others, particularly of
more elderly women, may have been intended to provide for them for the
remainder of their lives.
-
A 71-year old woman entered a Magdalen Laundry “from hospital” in
the 1920s. She remained there until her death.
- A woman (age not recorded) entered a Magdalen Laundry in the 1920s
from an identified County Hospital. She “died of consumption” there
A 19-year old woman was sent by a named District Hospital to a
Magdalen Laundry in the 1920s. After a number of months, she “left for
County Home”.
- A woman (age not recorded) entered a Magdalen Laundry “from
Sanatorium” in the 1920s. The details of her departure are not
recorded.
- A 46-year old woman entered a Magdalen Laundry from an identified
“convalescent home” in the 1930s. She remained there for over 10
years, at which point she was “taken out by her sister
A 15-year old girl was placed in a Magdalen Laundry by a named
officer at “Rehab Institute” in the 1960s. She was “taken home by her
father” one month later.
- A 17-year old girl was placed in a Magdalen Laundry by a named
“Rehabilitation Officer” following a number of months in a named
hospital in the 1960s. She remained there for approximately 10
months, after which she was “taken to hostel by [name], Rehab.
Officer”.
Psychiatric hospitals and psychiatric services (including intellectual
disability services for many years)
188. As part of its exploration of State routes of entry to the Magdalen Laundries,
the Committee also considered and examined the possibility of a relationship
between the Magdalen Laundries and psychiatric hospitals and psychiatric
services. In light of the fact that, for many decades, psychiatric institutions
also housed people with intellectual disabilities, it is difficult for long periods of
time to distinguish between these two very different categories in the early
records of the Religious Congregations
Pages 501 to 521 covers psychiatric hospitals and intellectually disabled girls/women.
Routes of entry to the Magdalen Laundries (C):
Heath authorities and social services
[Magdalene report some extracts relating to disability.]
44. This means that by 1929 at least 4 Magdalen Laundries were approved by the Minister for Local Government and Health as extern institutions for the
“maintenance, education or treatment” of women eligible for public assistance.
The effect of these approvals was to permit the referral of women eligible for
public assistance to the Magdalen Laundries and further, to authorise
payment of the expenses of their maintenance there.
45. The Department’s Annual Report for 1938-1939 described the categories of
people maintained in approved extern institutions during the year:
“This class comprises afflicted persons (deaf and dumb, blind, mentally
defective, etc.) unmarried mothers and persons requiring special
treatment in outside hospitals”.10
A 15-year old girl was sent to a Magdalen Laundry in the 1960s by
“[place] Health Authority”. Her only recorded family was a fostermother.
The Register records that she was undergoing treatment at
a named psychiatric hospital. After less than a month, she was
“taken by [name], social worker” to a named psychiatric hospital.
- A woman (age not recorded) who had been in a named institution
for intellectually disabled children was “sent by [name], Health
Authority” to a Magdalen Laundry in the 1960s. She remained there
approximately 4 months
123. Another case involving both the NSPCC and the Health Authorities arose in
the late 1960s, when a man sought the advice of the organisation in relation
to his daughter (aged in her twenties) and her child.46 The woman was
described in the file as:
“somewhat retarded. She wants the child placed in care and is not
interested in keeping it. This child was previously boarded out by the
[place] health authority
137. Another case, which arose in the early 1970s and also involved both the
NSPCC and the “Children’s Dept.” of a Health Board, concerned a young girl
of 14 years of age who was living with her parents.50 An initial complaint was
made to the NSPCC regarding a child being in danger. It was reported that “a
number of men were visiting the house”. The Inspector met the child’s mother
who:
“admitted having affairs with the men and some of them give her
money. She is mentally retarded. [Father’s name] does not work. He is
also retarded. The child was attending the name school in place
[named school for intellectually disabled]. ... The parents are unfit to
have the custody care or charge of their child. I shall get in touch with
the [place] Health Authority about the case”.
138. The Registers of the Religious Congregations indicate that the child was,
within a few months thereafter, admitted to a Magdalen Laundry. She was
transferred to a named psychiatric hospital from the Magdalen Laundry.
139. A subsequent file of the NSPCC – confirming on its face that a named officer of the “Children’s Dept” was the “other agenc[y] ... involved” contains records of the child’s subsequent experiences. At this point the child was 16 years of age. The file records that from psychiatric hospital, she had been discharged to her family. The NSPCC handed the case over fully to the Health Authority and no further records were kept.
160. The information identified by the Committee suggests that the vast majority of
such cases were referrals of a girl or women in employment in a hospital.
Some of these cases of referrals of a girl or woman in employment in a
hospital arise in the context of the period of supervision which followed
discharge from an Industrial or Reformatory School. Such cases are dealt
with in detail in the Chapter 10. However, it is also likely that a small number
of cases of referrals, identified in the records of the Religious Congregations as being from a hospital or a named doctor in a hospital, related to a patient in
that hospital.
161. This is difficult to establish conclusively from official records, but the most
likely circumstances of such referrals probably involved women ready for
discharge from hospital but due to homelessness or disability needed
accommodation, whether temporary or permanent.
162. In cases such as these, it appears that there may have been a practice at
some points in past decades (particularly during the periods in which welfare
provision was minimal) of referral of such patients to either the County Home
or a religious-operated institution (including, but by no means limited to
Magdalen Laundries). The Committee was informed that such a practice
certainly applied in psychiatric hospitals and that it is likely to have also
occurred in general hospitals.
163. The youngest known girl referred from a hospital or by a medical professional
was 13 years of age. The oldest was 71 years of age. The records of the
Religious Congregations suggest that there were some patients referred to
Magdalen Laundries from hospitals on the basis outlined above. Some
appear to have been intended as short-stays, while others, particularly of
more elderly women, may have been intended to provide for them for the
remainder of their lives.
-
A 71-year old woman entered a Magdalen Laundry “from hospital” in
the 1920s. She remained there until her death.
- A woman (age not recorded) entered a Magdalen Laundry in the 1920s
from an identified County Hospital. She “died of consumption” there
A 19-year old woman was sent by a named District Hospital to a
Magdalen Laundry in the 1920s. After a number of months, she “left for
County Home”.
- A woman (age not recorded) entered a Magdalen Laundry “from
Sanatorium” in the 1920s. The details of her departure are not
recorded.
- A 46-year old woman entered a Magdalen Laundry from an identified
“convalescent home” in the 1930s. She remained there for over 10
years, at which point she was “taken out by her sister
A 15-year old girl was placed in a Magdalen Laundry by a named
officer at “Rehab Institute” in the 1960s. She was “taken home by her
father” one month later.
- A 17-year old girl was placed in a Magdalen Laundry by a named
“Rehabilitation Officer” following a number of months in a named
hospital in the 1960s. She remained there for approximately 10
months, after which she was “taken to hostel by [name], Rehab.
Officer”.
Psychiatric hospitals and psychiatric services (including intellectual
disability services for many years)
188. As part of its exploration of State routes of entry to the Magdalen Laundries,
the Committee also considered and examined the possibility of a relationship
between the Magdalen Laundries and psychiatric hospitals and psychiatric
services. In light of the fact that, for many decades, psychiatric institutions
also housed people with intellectual disabilities, it is difficult for long periods of
time to distinguish between these two very different categories in the early
records of the Religious Congregations
Pages 501 to 521 covers psychiatric hospitals and intellectually disabled girls/women.
Monday, February 4, 2013
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