Father John McManus has taken leave of his duties
BBC reports that one of the most senior priests in the Down and Connor diocese has taken leave of his duties following allegations of abuse against him.
They were received by the diocesan child safeguarding office in January.
Father John McManus was a former press spokesperson for the diocese and a member of its committee which oversees the safeguarding of children.
The police have begun investigating the allegations. In a statement Fr McManus said he denied them “wholeheartedly”.
The priest, who is based in the parish of Ballygalget on the Ards peninsula, released a statement on Wednesday night. In it he denied the allegations and said he had co-operated fully with the inquiry.
Fr McManus said that for the duration of the inquiry he has requested leave from his ministry as a priest and his position as chancellor of the diocese of Down and Connor.
The chancellor effectively runs the administration of the diocese.
In the statement he also asked people to pray for all those hurt by abuse and also to pray for him.
A statement from the Bishop of Down and Connor, Bishop Noel Treanor, confirmed that the allegations were first received six weeks ago on 27 January.
More at:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-12694741