Gene Kerrigan: Half-truth that gave lie to protector role

A medieval tactic kept clerical consciences clear while covering up years of child abuse, says Gene Kerrigan

When Cardinal Desmond Connell lied to RTE, he did so carefully. He used a 17th-century variation on a 13th-century philosophical technique employed by the heavies from the Catholic Church elite. This enabled him to deceive RTE and the public while keeping a clear conscience. What a clever, learned man. How adeptly he used this ancient manoeuvre to protect his standing and power.