Trainee priests in Maynooth to have their social media activity monitored following this month's allegations

Trainee priests at St Patrick's College in Maynooth are going to have their social media activity reviewed and monitored following the accusations last month that a number of students were using gay dating apps.

A meeting was held yesterday between a number of trustees in regards to the revelations that came to light in the wake of the allegations made by former students and lecturers at the college, with one former psychology lecturer revealing that there was an attitude of looking the other way when it came to the sexual activities of trainee priests in Maynooth.

A statement released from the college this morning stated that there would be no place in the seminary for the type of behaviour that has been reported over the last number of weeks.

"Acknowledging the recent and extensive media coverage regarding the college, and the disquiet that it has caused amongst the faithful, the trustees emphasise that the Church has clear instructions on the formation of seminarians. It is essential that these are observed in order to form priests “after the heart of the Good Shepherd” (cf. Jer 3.15). There is no place in a seminary community for any sort of behaviour or attitude which contradicts the teaching and example of Jesus Christ," read the statement.

14 new students started their training in St Patrick's College earlier this week, which is down three from the 17 who started this time last year.