Standard 3
Standard 3 - Responding Pastorally and Reporting according to Civil and Canon Law
Introduction
Children and young people occupy a central place in the heart of the Christian community and have a right to be listened to and be heard. The purpose of the Dominican mission is the help people grow in faith and human development, surrounding children and young people in an environment that gives primary consideration to their protection and welfare.
To create and maintain this safe environment, all friars of the Dominican Order in Ireland, (the Irish Province) must respond to all allegations of abuse in accordance with civil and canonical requirements. (Guidance 12 page 92)
The only exception to this is the receipt of any information by a priest under the sacramental seal of Confession. (Guidance 11 page 90)
It is important that anyone working on behalf of the Dominican Province of Ireland knows how to respond to allegations, including who to tell and how to record the information. This section provides guidance on these issues.
Should any person be unsure of whether information they have received constitutes an allegation of abuse and/or if they want guidance on how they should manage a concern, they should contact the DLP or deputy without delay.