Written question asked by Andrew Mackinlay (Labour) on Monday, 15 March 2010, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 18 March 2010. It was answered by Paul Goggins (Labour) on Thursday, 18 March 2010 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Offences Against Children

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland pursuant to the answer of 7 January 2010, Official Report, column 497W, on clergy: misconduct, if he will initiate discussions with (a) the Irish government, (b) the Roman Catholic Bishop's Conference of Ireland and Primate of Ireland and (c) the Papal Nuncio on the implications of the report of the Irish Commission of Inquiry into sex abuse and related misconduct by members of the clergy and religious orders transferred to dioceses or religious houses in Northern Ireland or elsewhere in the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: This matter cuts across the responsibilities of a number of Departments in both the devolved and reserved areas. I understand that, following the resolution passed by the Northern Ireland Assembly, the Northern Ireland Minister for Health, Social Services and Public Safety is preparing a paper for the Northern Ireland Executive, setting out options for the way ahead. I have already indicated our commitment to participate fully in any agreed actions. Until then, it would be premature for us to act unilaterally or to initiate discussions with any of the individuals or organisations.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 507 c1037W; 322826
Session: 2009-10
Related items: Clergy: Misconduct
Thursday, 7 January 2010
Written questions
House of Commons
Subjects: Northern Ireland Offences against children
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk