ACP Statement on the Care of Elderly Priests
Association of Catholic Priests (ACP) Calls for
Greater Protection of Elderly Rights in Light of Legislation*
Date: 3 November 2025
The Association of Catholic Priests (ACP) welcomes the legislative developments in Ireland that seek to strengthen the rights, protections, and dignity of older people, including in the areas of health, housing, autonomy, and social participation.
In this context, the ACP calls on Church leaders—including Bishops and those in decision-making roles—to ensure that these legal standards inform their pastoral and administrative decisions, particularly as they affect elderly clergy.
“We are asking the Bishops and those in other leadership roles to be informed by and mindful of the needs of the elderly as laid out by the legislation, and to fully engage with these elderly priests before making any decisions,” said a spokesperson for the ACP.
Elderly Priests and Increasing Burdens
The ACP notes with concern that many older priests, some well into their 70s and 80s, are being asked to take on increased responsibilities due to the ongoing decline in priestly numbers. While many of these men continue to serve out of deep commitment and a profound sense of duty, the ACP warns: “We believe they may be taken advantage of.”
The ACP stresses that any expectation placed on elderly clergy must take into account their health, well-being, and right to rest, as now reflected in Irish law and in emerging models of care.
Synodal Process and Pace of Change
The ACP also welcomes the ongoing Synodal process within the Irish Church and strongly supports the increasing involvement of lay people at all levels of Church life and leadership. This is an encouraging sign of renewal.
However, the ACP expresses concern that: “The necessary changes are happening at too slow a pace.”
The organisation calls for a more urgent and courageous approach to reform, particularly when it comes to creating sustainable, compassionate, and inclusive models of ministry that do not overburden ageing clergy.
A Call to Compassionate Leadership
As Ireland moves forward in implementing stronger protections for older citizens, the ACP calls on Church leadership to mirror this national commitment within the Church’s own structures.
“Care for the elderly is not only a legal matter—it is a moral and pastoral imperative.”
The ACP urges all Church leaders to consult meaningfully with elderly priests, honour their contributions, and ensure their dignity and autonomy are respected, in full alignment with both the spirit of the Gospel and the letter of Irish law.
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The Statement based on the principles put forth from principles, policies and procedures taken from the HSE document “Safeguarding Vulnerable Persons at Risk of Abuse (2014).” Also taking into account documents published by National and International organisations such as European Union, Council of Europe and Irish Senior Citizens Parliament that have created charters and conventions that outline the rights of the older person focussing on dignity, autonomy and participation.
It is a matter of social justice that elderly priests receive the same rights, protections and dignity of older people as do the laity. Priests need time for self-care too. Psychologist Wisks says, “Self care in the end is not just about you.” Parishioners and those seeking their help deserve to have an encounter with a priest who can provide compassionate and effective counsel. They cannot do so if they are overworked and over burdened.