A Catholic priest in Belfast has been asked to stand down from his duties while an investigation takes place, the Down and Connor diocese said yesterday.
It said that “in mid-July the Diocese of Down and Connor received information citing a priest of the diocese, Dr Hugh Kennedy, administrator of St Peter’s Cathedral (in Belfast). This information was forwarded promptly to the relevant statutory authorities, (police and social services), who are seeking to clarify its content.”
It continued that Fr Kennedy, “who has been on sick leave since early July and before this information was made known to the diocese, has agreed to step aside from his duties while the information is being clarified”.
It said “the diocese can also confirm that the information does not relate to the Schola Cantorum, St Peter’s Cathedral, nor to any member of the Schola. No further comment can be made whilst the civil authorities continue to clarify this matter.”