Vatican recalls Papal Nuncio for 'consultations' on Cloyne report

The Vatican has summoned its representative in Ireland to Rome for "consultations" on the Cloyne report into clerical child sex abuse.

The Vatican has summoned its representative in Ireland to Rome for "consultations" on the Cloyne report into clerical child sex abuse.

It follows a damning accusation from the Government that the Vatican had tried to obstruct child protection measures, and the inquiry, into the diocese.

News first broke of this recall of Guiseppe Leanza on Vatican radio this morning.

The Press Office of the Holy See later confirmed the move for what it called "consultations" on the Cloyne report.

But many question the use of the words recall, rather than call back, as recall suggests the measure could be a diplomatic rebuff to Ireland.

Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore said that the decision to recall the Papal Nuncio to the Vatican for consultations is a matter for the Holy See.

In a statement, Minister Gilmore went on to say that the Government is awaiting the response of the Holy See to the Cloyne report, and it is to be expected that the Vatican would wish to consult in depth with the Nuncio on its response.

Within hours of the Cloyne report being made public the Papal Nuncio had been summoned to Iveagh House where it was made clear the Government wanted answers from Rome on the issues raised.

And there had been repeated and mounting calls for Guiseppe Leanza to be expelled.

Last week's strongly worded Dáil statement by the Taoiseach Enda Kenny strongly criticising the Vatican is thought to have led to today's announcement.

Relations between Ireland the Holy See are at a low point in the wake of this and other scandals surrounding child protection.

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