Diocese of Killaloe speaks out on former Waterford priest and principal jailed for child abuse
At the Con Desmond (pictured) sentencing hearing this week, it was revealed by Gardaí that he was also convicted of child abuse in 2006 and 2013. Photo: Patrick Browne
The Diocese of Killaloe issued a statement regarding former priest and convicted paedophile Con Desmond in the wake of his sentencing for child abuse.
Desmond (91) was sentenced to over three years in prison after being found guilty of abusing a child between 1978 and 1980.
He abused the child while he was Principal Brother Cornelius of De La Salle National School in Waterford City.
At his sentencing hearing, it was revealed by Gardaí that Desmond was convicted of child abuse in 2006 and 2013. Detective Finbarr O'Sullivan confirmed that the previous offences occurred within “the school setting” and involved different victims.
Desmond was ordained as priest in 1989 and served the Diocese of Killaloe in County Clare.
Father Brendan Quinlivan of Killaloe Diocese confirmed to the Waterford News and Star that Desmond was let go from ministry after the first allegation of abuse came to light in 2002.
Fr. Quinlivan stated: "The Church deeply regrets the profound suffering, hurt and harm caused to the survivors of sexual abuse. We acknowledge the lasting impact of such abuse and express our sincere concern for all those affected.
"Following receipt of the first allegation against Con Desmond in 2002, relating to his time in Waterford, the Diocese of Killaloe acted in accordance with its safeguarding procedures and removed him from ministry. This restriction remains in place."
Fr. Quinlivan stated that there had been no allegation made against Desmond during his time in Killaloe "to the best of the Diocese's knowledge".
He continued: "However, we strongly encourage anyone who has a concern or information relating to abuse to report it without delay to the relevant civil authorities, including An Garda Síochána, and/or the Safeguarding Officer of the Diocese of Killaloe. All such concerns should be brought forward and treated with the utmost seriousness.
"Support and counselling are available to survivors through Towards Healing, an independent organisation providing support to people who have experienced abuse in Church settings."
