The Dominican Province of Ireland recognises that there are many people with whom church personnel have contact, who may require special care and attention. The Irish Dominicans values and encourages the participation of vulnerable adults in all our liturgies and activities that enhance their spiritual, physical, emotional, intellectual and social development. We believe that all church personnel, including priests, brothers, students, staff and volunteers must carry out their ministry respecting the rights of the individual in line with gospel values and human rights legislation.
The Irish Dominican Province recognises and upholds the dignity and rights of vulnerable adults and is committed to safeguarding all our members. The guidance set out in this document provides a framework of how it is recommended that the Dominican Order ministers to and safeguards vulnerable adults. It identifies what we mean by the term, vulnerable adults and highlights values and principles which should underpin such necessary work.
These guidelines apply to all Dominican clergy, brothers, students, visiting clergy, staff and volunteers, and adhere to current best practice and guidance in the Republic of Ireland. They should be read in conjunction with the Dominican Safeguarding Children Policy and Procedure Handbook (2020) and the Safeguarding Children Policy and Standards for the Catholic Church in Ireland, 2016.
The Dominican Order, through these guidelines, sets out to protect vulnerable adults from harm and exploitation and to uphold their rights by acting in their best interests and with their consent.
This Interim Policy and Procedures document will be reviewed following the first year of operation and the Irish Dominicans will continue to review it, in accordance with any legislative, changes and/or key HSE policy changes and/or best practice developments.