JOHN MCCALLION FROM CO DONEGAL AND WATERFORD JAILED FOR INDECENT ASSAULTS ON SCHOOLGIRLS IN DERRY

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the communities of Derry, Co Donegal, and Co Waterford, John McCallion, a 47-year-old man from Lifford, Co Donegal, was sentenced to two years in prison for his involvement in a series of heinous crimes against young girls. The offences took place while McCallion was on loan to the Diocese of Derry from his religious order, and the crimes spanned from May 1987 to August 1988, during which he assaulted three primary schoolgirls within the parish of St Mary’s.

McCallion, who was associated with Mount Melleray Abbey in Co Waterford, had pleaded guilty to nine separate charges of indecent assault. He had been in custody since the previous month, following his admission of guilt during a court hearing at Derry Crown Court. The court proceedings revealed the disturbing details of the case, and the judge, Thomas Burgess, emphasized the gravity of McCallion's actions and their profound impact on the victims.

During the sentencing, Judge Burgess noted that medical evidence indicated McCallion was suffering from incipient paedophilia when he arrived in Derry. However, the medical assessments concluded that he was no longer considered a paedophile and did not pose a danger to children at the time of sentencing. Despite this, the judge described McCallion's conduct as perverse and deeply damaging.

Addressing McCallion directly, Judge Burgess stated, "Your position as priest placed three children in the position where they would have expected any complaint made by them against you to be greeted with incredulity." The judge highlighted that each of the victims had retreated into silence, struggling to cope with the trauma and feelings of guilt, embarrassment, and self-blame that resulted from the assaults. The victims, who were innocent, suffered emotional scars that would likely stay with them for life.

The court also acknowledged the broader impact of McCallion's crimes, noting that the victims' faith in the church had been significantly undermined. Despite this, Judge Burgess urged the victims to find strength in their faith and to continue to believe in their church community.

While McCallion did not resort to violence or threats during the assaults, the judge pointed out that he employed manipulation and enticement, prolonging the abuse and breaching the sacred trust placed in him as a religious figure. The judge condemned his actions as a betrayal of his religious duties and a violation of the innocence of the children he was supposed to protect. The court's decision reflects the seriousness with which such breaches of trust are regarded, especially when committed by someone in a position of moral authority.