Diocesan News11 Jun 15

Statement From Bishop Ken Good Following The Funeral Of Paul McCauley

I wish to express my deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Paul McCauley following his death last weekend.

The injuries which were inflicted on Paul in a brutal sectarian attack almost nine years ago were horrific in the extreme.

As a father myself I can empathise with what Paul’s parents have been through over the last nine years, although I can only imagine the depth of their pain and grief.

Despite the great wrong that was done to their son, Jim and Cathy have acted with remarkable dignity. Their devotion to Paul during his years in medical care has been inspirational.

There can be no excuse for the violent attack upon Paul McCauley and no justification for it. It was wrong. It was wicked. It was inexcusable. And it must be repudiated by all Christian people, regardless of denomination.

Nor should there be any hiding place for those who carried it out. Their crime has appalled the people of this city. We – the community – have a responsibility to do all in our power to see that the perpetrators are brought to justice.

I urge anyone who has any knowledge of the incident to share it with the police. I would even appeal to those who were involved in the attack – and who inflicted this grievous injustice upon Paul – to search their consciences and come forward to the police. It is not too late.

Paul’s parents and family are assured of my prayers, of my support and of my deep admiration.

+Ken

Bishop of Derry & Raphoe