Fionn,
And others. I have always treated this forum as one primarily concerned with Folk Music in all its ramifications. This current anti-Catholic rant has nothing whatever to do with Folk Music. On this ground alone I question its relevance. I would also like to take the opportunity to point out that the vast majority of child abuse cases are perpetrated not by Catholic priests but by close family of the victims, in descending order of magnitude: Grandfather, Father, Uncle.
I hear no loud cries for the demolition of the family nor for the wholesale condemnation of fathers . Grandfathers, uncles. Why is this?
I also question the validity of some of these claims, without, I hasten to add, condoning the abhorrent bahaviour of the guilty - when proven in a court of law! Within the last three weeks, a Catholic priest in Belfast was subjected to a *second* court case concerning his alleged abuse of young boys. He was totally exhonerated on both occasions. There was no outcry at the false charges laid against *him*. The headlines announcng his trial (and presuming his guilt!) were not reflected in equally large headlines proclaiming his innocence!
Accusations (within the last year) of murder against the Christian Brothers in Ireland concerning a young twelve year old in their care led to an enormous outcry and Press - and Public - condemnation of the Order. So loud were the demands that an exhumation order was obtained and a thorough post mortem examination carried out. The conclusion was that the child died from natural causes. I, and countless others, are waiting an apology from the accusers. Suddenly, they are silent ! I ask myself why. Annraoi.