A jury has been sworn in the case County Tyrone priest who is to stand trial for historic sexual abuse charges against a number of males, which began with two complainants but has now increased to five after further reports in recent months which have now been joined to the original matters.
Canon Patrick McEntee, from Esker Road, Dromore requested a leave of absence in 2022 while a serious safeguarding investigation was carried out.
Last year the 70-year-old was charged with sexual offences against five males which allegedly occurred in the County Fermanagh area.
There are four counts of indecently assaulting one complainant on dates between 1988 and 1989 and a single count of indecently assaulting another complainant between 1980 and 1981.
In addition there are a further four counts of indecent assault against three males- two counts against one and single counts against the other two.
These matters allegedly occurred on various dates between 1978 and 1987.
Standing in the dock of Dungannon Crown Court, Canon McEntee denied all charges against him.
To date, no details surrounding the circumstances of the case have been disclosed, other than he was an ordained priest at the time, aged between 24 and 35 over the course of the alleged abuse.
Today (Monday) a jury was sworn in ahead of trial which will commence tomorrow and is expected to last around two weeks
Judge Richard Greene remanded Canon McEntee on continuing bail of £500 and banned all contact with the complainants and any person aged under 16.
Originally from Monaghan, Canon McEntee joined the staff of St Michael’s College, Enniskillen in teaching religious studies and sitting on the Board of Governors.
He was also college principal between 1994 and 2000, moving on to take up the post of Parish Priest at St Davog’s Church in Dromore, County Tyrone in 2001, where he has remained until his recent leave of absence.
Previously the Diocese of Clogher confirmed: “Canon Patrick McEntee PP, Dromore, County Tyrone, has asked for a period of leave to allow a safeguarding matter to be addressed. The Diocese of Clogher has robust safeguarding policies and practices in place. The Diocese of Clogher takes seriously all allegations, suspicions or concerns of abuse.”
When asked of the current status given the charges now faced, a spokesperson replied: “Canon Patrick McEntee is on leave while a safeguarding matter is dealt with and will continue to be on leave from ministry until all due processes have been completed.”
