Ireland's largest Catholic archdiocese has admitted it is facing serious financial problems with parishes on the brink of going bust because of the recession and clerical abuse claims.
Leaked papers from the Council of Priests in the Dublin Archdiocese reveal many parishes are in a precarious position after €13 million was paid out in compensation to victims of child abuse.
The papers also reveal the archdiocese believes the biggest impact on church funds has been falling donations at Mass. Among ideas being put forward by priests to tackle the situation is a levy on families that would plug a massive gap in donations.
A spokesperson said the church has been hit by declining financial resources "like most people and organizations in the current economic climate."
"It is preparing measures to address that situation based on an analysis of pastoral needs and funding requirements into the future," the spokesperson added.
"The archdiocese has to face the current serious economic reality and review what it can and cannot support financially in the coming years. It is a complex situation which will require a multifaceted, considered response."
The archdiocese is in the middle of a root-and-branch financial review, with a number of bodies urged to prepare for an overhaul of funding, including the Council of Priests. The idea for a levy on Catholic families in each of the 199 parishes in Dublin has targeted funds of €3 million a year.
