A garda investigation has been launched in the diocese of Tuam following allegations that a priest raped a pregnant woman there during the 1970s.

The case centres on allegations of abuse made by a woman who is now in her forties. She claims the priest raped her on two separate occasions when she approached him for advice after becoming pregnant.

She further alleges that the priest subsequently paid her €10,000 and offered her a further €5,000.

Archbishop of Tuam Michael Neary has asked the priest to stand aside from his duties following coverage of the alleged rape in yesterday’s newspapers.

Dr Neary said however, that this measure has been taken to protect the reputation of other priests in the diocese, since the allegations cast a shadow over all priests in the area.

He added that if all the allegations had not been made public, he would not have demanded the priest stand aside until such time as the gardaí completed their investigations.

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