Vulnerable young people and the elderly will suffer due to Budget 2014, charitable groups working at the coal face have warned. Minister for Finance Michael Noonan this week announced dramatic restrictions on medical cards, cuts to telephone allowances for the elderly and increased prescription charges. The Government also announced fresh cuts to social welfare rates…
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Former Norbertine abbot removed from ministry
Fr Kevin Smith, the former Norbertine abbot who was responsible for covering up the abuses of the notorious Fr Brendan Smyth has been removed from ministry following an allegation made against him of inappropriate behaviour towards a woman. The Holy Trinity Abbey in Kilnacrott, Co. Cavan, confirmed to The Irish Catholic this week that the…
Sister act
Director Woody Allen is back on form, writes Aubrey Malone
Francis in his own words
There is much to digest in the Pope’s words, writes Fr Rolheiser
The abortion law can be overturned
Dear Editor, I deplore the abortion legislation recently passed by the Dáil. I applaud the work of the Pro Life Campaign, the Life Institute and others for mobilising such impressive numbers in opposition to the law. The way we approach the next phase of the campaign will determine whether or not the law is overturned…
We must defend faith formation
Dear Editor, The Department of Education has recently invited submissions regarding the teaching of religion in primary schools. Reading the document on the department's website it is clear that unless we make our views known to them before November 22, we are likely to see significant changes in our primary schools in regard to: the…
It is wrong to silence Fr Flannery
Dear Editor, The great apostle Paul, whilst imprisoned – whilst in chains – in Rome, could well have thrown in the towel in a state of despair. But no: instead, he exhorted his people – the people of God – to "Rejoice in the Lord always: again, I say, Rejoice." (Phil. 4:4). Many generations later,…
Moved by hearing Pope’s message
Dear Editor, I had the privilege of attending, along with many tens of thousands of eager pilgrims, Pope Francis’ Audience on September 25 in St Peter’s Square. The focus of Pope Francis catechesis was the unity of the Church. Unity in faith, in hope, in charity, in the sacraments and the ministry, are “like the…
A new movement for Ireland is needed
Dear Editor, Those of us who have to endure the arrogance and contempt from our dictatorial Government, autocratic Taoiseach, and their servant backbenchers who forced through The Protection of Life During PregnancyAct despite vehement opposition have had their say in the Seanad referendum. Of course the Seanad needs reform but that can wait for another…
Pope encourages youth to embrace marriage as ‘vocation’
Choosing marriage “takes courage” Pope tells young people