Michael provided the legal side. There is no statute of limitation when investigating alleged murder, so this talk of Vatican councils is irrelevant. The starving and disposal of bodies took place in a country where the law allows criminals to be held to account, should they still be alive, as far back as you like.

Talk of judging religious cults and organisations doesn't come Into it. People on Irish soil at the time of alleged crimes are the only creatures needing judging.

Judgement is secular, and judged by secular standards. Hiding behind superstition is hopefully no defence. Following orders has a well known legal precedent for that matter.....