All children have a fundamental right to be respected, nurtured, cared for and safeguarded; this right is embedded in Gospel values, best practice guidelines and international and domestic laws.

The National Board for Safeguarding Children in the Catholic Church in Ireland has developed comprehensive safeguarding standards which are designed to support best practice in providing safe environments and child protection procedures.

The Diocese of Limerick, along with all church bodies, has committed to comply with these standards. Arising from this the Diocese has revised all its safeguarding policies, procedures and resources. The diocese has also committed itself to working in partnership with the statutory authorities

All priests and every person holding an appointment from or within the Diocese or in a parish, or volunteering within Diocesan/parish structures must adhere to these policies and procedures and act at all times to create safe environments for children and ensure that all concerns are responded to appropriately.

All religious communities and lay catholic organisations ministering in the Diocese are expected to adhere to the National Board for Safeguarding Children in the Catholic Church in Ireland Policy and Standards and ensure that the welfare of children is always considered paramount.

All Church personnel must work to ensure that all aspects of safeguarding children are managed professionally.

I wish to acknowledge the work of the many people throughout the Diocese who promote the welfare of children and provide assurance to their families.

All Church personnel must work to ensure that all aspects of safeguarding children are managed professionally.

In keeping with these commitments, the diocese will provide:

• Arrangements in all of its activities to promote the welfare of children and to keep them safe
• Information to facilitate recognition of, responding to and reporting of child abuse
• Access to advice and support for complainants, respondents and other persons effected by abuse
• Training and education to equip Church personnel for their roles and responsibilities