Madam, - We find ourselves dismayed and increasingly concerned at the coverage of the former Bishop Casey's imminent return to Ireland. What seems to be almost universally absent from the coverage and comment is a recognition of wrongdoing, above and beyond a breach of vows of celibacy. While we would not wish to deny Fr Casey a return from exile, we do think that an acknowledgment of wrongdoing is required. The former bishop abused his power and betrayed his position of trust. Therefore, we very much welcome Bishop of Galway Dr Martin Drennan's call for an apology.
Behind the references to Annie Murphy as Fr Eamonn Casey's "lover" are some telling facts. They are as follows: Annie Murphy was in Ireland to recover from a painful personal experience. She turned to the church for support and care. The church assigned Bishop Casey to provide that care to her. Shortly afterwards they entered into a sexual relationship.
Any caring professional, be it a doctor, teacher, counsellor or a priest, who is entrusted with the care of a vulnerable person and embarks on a sexual relationship with that patient/client is more than likely to be found guilty of professional misconduct.
The notion that this is simply a case of socially unacceptable love misses two very important points. The relationship started when the former bishop was ministering to Annie in his professional capacity as a priest. Secondly, a priest's vow of celibacy, taken on trust, renders the objects of a sexual approach ill prepared and particularly vulnerable.
While Fr Eamonn Casey did betray his parishioners and the Catholic church and has recognised and apologised for that betrayal and hurt, Annie Murphy was also betrayed. His misuse of position and neglect of duty of care in that relationship means that this aspect of his apology is not a private matter between two consenting adults, especially if Fr Casey seeks to recommend himself for continued service in a ministry he has abused in the past. - Yours, etc,
FIONA NEARY, Executive Director, Rape Crisis Network Ireland, Quay Street, Galway.