A priest in the Diocese of Kerry has been removed from the clerical state by Pope John Paul 11, a spokesman for the diocese confirmed yesterday.
The priest, who has been the subject of an allegation of sexual abuse, is not being named.
Aged in his late 40s, he has not been tried or convicted of any sexual abuse offence in the courts.
He was removed from active ministry a decade ago, after complaints to Bishop's House from parishioners, it is understood.
A complaint was made two years ago to the Garda Síochána and a file sent to the DPP in relation to an alleged abuse of a female in a parish in which he had served.
It is understood the allegation related to the late 1980s.
The DPP decided late last year not to prosecute.
The priest had served in a number of parishes in the Diocese of Kerry, which extends into parts of west and north Cork.
Because he was not prosecuted in the courts, it is understood the priest was preparing to seek reinstatement from Bishop Bill Murphy.
It is understood the Pope's direction was received by both the Bishop of Kerry, Dr Bill Murphy, and the priest involved in late August.
Father Rory O'Sullivan, director of communications with the Diocese of Kerry, confirmed the priest had been removed from the clerical state.
He said that he did not wish to comment further on the case.
The diocese met on an on-going basis with the diocese's childcare committee, gardaí and the health board on child protection measures and would continue to consult with these statutory bodies, Father O'Sullivan said.