PERTH PARISH PRIEST SUSPENDED AMID HISTORICAL ABUSE ALLEGATIONS
A parish priest has been suspended over allegations of historical abuse.Father Tom Shields, who is also chaplain responsible for two primary schools, has been ordered to stand down from his duties while police investigate the claims.
The Catholic Church in Scotland reported that they took the allegations seriously and referred the matter to the police, but stated that they found no evidence of any crime.
Church authorities explained that the decision to suspend Shields is part of following national safeguarding protocols while the investigation is ongoing.
A churchgoer from St John’s expressed concern, noting that 'He said that there had been allegations of historical abuse and they were being investigated.' The police confirmed that inquiries were made following information received, but no formal complaint has been filed.
Shields has been associated with the local community for many years and was appointed last year by Bishop Stephen Robson to oversee youth programs and religious education.
Bishop Robson emphasized the importance of transparency and stated that 'Learning from our shortcomings, omissions and ineffectiveness will be a painful exercise for the Church.' The priest has not commented publicly, and authorities remain cautious as they conduct their investigation.
