2.39 Responding to Allegations against Deceased Clerics and Religious

All allegations must be received with openness to listening and responding pastorally to the complainant. If an allegation relates to a cleric or religious who is deceased, it may not be possible to establish the credibility of the allegation.

The following response should be made:

• The allegation must be reported following 2.2.

• The DLP offers to meet with the complainant to receive their account.

 • A pastoral response should be provided which includes an offer of a support person and counselling.

 • Information to establish the facts should be gathered from the complainant and any case records.

• If there are other allegations against the deceased cleric/religious and there is a pattern evident in the new allegation, it may be assumed that the allegation is credible.

• If the allegation is deemed credible, an offer to meet the Bishop should be made to the complainant.

 • The Bishop should offer pastoral care and may consider offering an apology for the harm suffered.

• If there are no previous allegations against the respondent and there is no semblance of truth to the allegation, the complainant should be advised accordingly.

 •  All allegations against deceased clerics and religious must be reported to An Garda Síochána who have a responsibility to assess whether a criminal offence occurred. In the case of allegations against a deceased cleric or religious, while prosecution is not possible An Garda Síochána will require notification of the allegation as it may assist with solving an investigation.

• Tusla have advised that allegations against deceased clerics and religious should not be reported to them.

• All allegations against deceased clerics and religious must be reported to the National Board who have a responsibility to monitor the management of allegations in the Catholic Church in Ireland.

• All sexual abuse allegations against deceased clerics must be reported to CDF.