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 84-year-old Fr Smith, described as “actively retired”, has stepped aside while the allegation is investigated. Fr William Fitzgerald of Holy Trinity said a statement made by the woman concerned has been passed to gardaí.
He could not confirm if the woman has now pursued the matter with gardaí. Fr Fitzgerald added, however, that Fr Smith has denied the allegations.
Fr Fitzgerald confirmed that he has been in discussion with Bishop Leo O’Reilly of Kilmore as the abbey lies within that diocese.
