“In the exercise of my responsibility as Bishop of Waterford & Lismore, and to provide clear information to the faithful of the Diocese, I am publishing the following statement in the interest of the spiritual and pastoral integrity of the Diocese:
I commissioned an inquiry into Father Michael O’Connor of the Diocese of Waterford & Lismore in accordance with Church procedures. This process involved referring the case of Father O’Connor to the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith in the Vatican. The result of this inquiry is that Michael O’Connor has been dismissed from the clerical state, and therefore he is no longer a priest.
This decision is solely based on the outcome of this Church inquiry. I will not be making any further comment on the matter.”
ENDS