Press Releases
Statement regarding the Reverend Canon Joe Condell
The Diocese of Limerick today announced the resignation of the Reverend Canon Joe Condell.
Canon Joe Condell appeared in the Circuit Court in Nenagh today, where he pleaded guilty to the charge of being in possession of child pornography.
The Bishop of Limerick, the Right Reverend Michael Mayes said: “I want to express my deep personal sadness at the nature of the charges to which Canon Condell today pleaded guilty in court. It is even more distressing as Canon Condell has been a long serving pastor within his parish where he was held in high esteem, and has played a major part in the administration and leadership of the diocese as a whole.
“Child pornography of its very nature portrays the cruel degradation and sexual exploitation of defenceless children for financial gain, and is completely at odds with the nature and purpose of pastoral ministry. Those who help perpetuate this squalid industry by obtaining its products are inevitably involved in betraying the natural trust of children who instinctively turn to adults for help when they cannot protect themselves.
“Within the Church of Ireland, the protection of children is ensured through the child protection policy Safeguarding Trust, implemented under the Constitution of the Church in each of its dioceses.
“I would like to pay a particular tribute to the parishioners of Roscrea, who have dealt with grace and generosity of spirit with such a difficult situation. I would also like to thank those clerical colleagues who have provided pastoral support within the parish and to the whole Condell family over an exceedingly difficult period.
“Pastoral provision for the parish and for the Condell family will continue to be provided by the diocese.”