Former Bishop Call For End To Clerical Celibacy

The former Bishop of Derry, Dr Edward Daly, has claimed that there needs to be a place in the modern Catholic church for a married priesthood and has called for an end to clerical celibacy.

Dr Daly, 77, who was a bishop for almost 20 years and worked in Derry throughout the troubles, also said that many young men who considered joining the priesthood turned away because of the celibacy rule.

A photograph, showing the then priest waving a white handkerchief on Bloody Sunday, has become one of the most enduring images of the troubles.

Appearing on BBC's Good Morning Ulster programme to speak about his new book, A Troubled See – in which he addresses such controversial issues - Bishop Daly said allowing clergymen to marry would ease the Church's problems.

He commented: "There will always be a place in the church for a celibate priesthood, but there should also be a place for a married priesthood in the church.

"I think priests should have the freedom to marry if they wish. It may create a whole new set of problems but I think it's something that should be considered."

While Dr Daly accepted that his views might be out of step with current Vatican thinking, he claimed he was "not engaged in a popularity contest."

The former bishop went on to say that he found it heartbreaking during his term as Bishop when priests or prospective priests were forced to resign or were simply unable to join the priesthood because of the celibacy rule.

"I'm worried about the decreasing number of priests and the number of older priests. I think it's an issue that needs to be addressed and addressed urgently."

(JG/GK)