FROM FINTAN TO CAROLE
When your bishop reports you to the civil authorities (police), things have become most serious indeed.
Fintan told both Carole and Yvonne that he believed their stories.
I imagine the matters referred by Fintan to the Gardai may include the five figure sum in Ger’s bank account, his use of other people’s prescription drugs, and his sourcing of marajuna for others’ use.
Decisions on these matters will be matters for the Gardai and public prosecution service.
FINTAN’S INTERNAL CHURCH OPTIONS
Canon 277 binds Ger to “Observe perfect and perpetual continence.”
In other words, Ger must observe complete celibacy and chastity. He has obviously contravened Canon 277 section 1.
Section 2 of Canon 277 requires Ger to “behave with due prudence in relation to persons whose company can be a danger” to their celibacy and chastity.
Her has behaved with total imprudence in his relationship with Yvonne and Carole.
In this, he is in breach of Canon 277 section 2.
How any canon lawyer has told him he is not in breach of Canon Law is a great mystery.
FINTAN’S PUNISHMENTS
Fintan has already moved Ger from ministry.
He can extend that removal period – but that leaves Ger getting € 22,000 + per year for doing nothing.
He can suspend Ger from the priesthood entirely and bring a case to Rome for Ger’s laicisation.
Or Ger can leave the priesthood voluntarily and work out a settlement with Fintan.
Given Ger’s behaviour and the massive scandal it has caused, I cannot see how Ger could ever be given another appointment as a priest.
Parishioners would worry about the parishes’ vulnerable women.
It looks as if the buses beckon.
BISHOP PAT BUCKLEY 