Diocese of Raphoe Issues Urgent Apology to Abuse Victims

BREAKING: The Diocese of Raphoe has publicly apologized to two sisters who were victims of sexual abuse by former priest Con Cunningham, who was sentenced to 15 months in prison. This urgent announcement was made on September 15, 2025, and addresses the grave shortcomings in how the sisters’ complaints were handled.

In a heartfelt statement, Diocesan Administrator Monsignor Kevin Gillespie acknowledged that the Diocese failed to properly address the concerns raised by Paula and Margaret Martin when they first reported the abuse to Bishop Seamus Hegarty in 1994. “This should have been handled differently,” Gillespie stated during an interview on the Nine til Noon Show, emphasizing the need for accountability and compassion.

The Diocese’s apology highlights a painful history for the victims, marking a significant moment in their long quest for justice. Cunningham pleaded guilty to eight counts of indecent assault committed between 1971 and 1975, bringing the issue of clerical abuse within the church back into the spotlight.

This urgent development is crucial as it underscores the ongoing impact of such abuse on individuals and communities. The acknowledgment from the Diocese is a critical step toward healing for the victims and reflects a growing recognition of the need for transparency and reform within religious institutions.

As the situation develops, many are watching closely to see what actions will be taken next to prevent future abuses and support survivors. The Diocese has promised to implement measures that ensure such failures do not happen again, but it remains to be seen how effective these changes will be.

The public response to this apology is expected to be significant, with advocacy groups pushing for more accountability from religious institutions. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing abuse claims with the seriousness they deserve, providing support to victims, and fostering a culture of transparency within the church.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the Diocese of Raphoe navigates the aftermath of this apology and seeks to rebuild trust with the community.