Lifford priest suspended from ministry after attempted child sex offence

Lifford priest Fr Edward Gallagher, who is charged with attempted sexual communication with a child, has been suspended from ministry.

Gallagher was this morning remanded in custody when he appeared before Derry Magistrates Court, sitting in Dungannon.

Last year, he was appointed as curate for the Camus, Clonleigh and Leckpatrick parishes, which include St Patrick’s Church in Murlog, Lifford.

However, the Diocese of Derry has confirmed to Donegal Live that the 58-year-old cleric has been suspended.

“The diocese takes such matters very seriously and as such has, in addition, commenced its own internal investigation, which will only take place in a manner which does not impede the criminal investigation,” a spokesperson for the diocese said.

“Fr Gallagher is suspended from ministry.

 “As charges are now before a court, it would not be appropriate for the diocese to comment further until the completion of the criminal proceedings.”

Gallagher was not in his clerical clothing and wore a grey tracksuit when he appeared via video link from the Waterside Police Station.

He is charged that on dates between April 2, 2025 and April 17, 2025 that he attempted sexual communication with a child.

Gallagher spoke only to confirm his date of birth and to say “I do” when asked if he understood the charge against him.

The diocese spokesperson added: “If anyone has any allegations or concerns regarding child abuse, they should contact the PSNI and Social Services in Northern Ireland, or An Garda Síochána and Tusla in the Republic of Ireland. 

“In addition, contact for diocesan safeguarding can be found on the diocesan website (derrydiocese.org ) or on posters in churches within the diocese.”

A PSNI constable told Judge Steven Keown that he could connect the accused to the charge.

Barrister for Gallagher, Mr Stephen Chapman BL, instructed by McGeady Molloy Solicitors, said there was no bail application and asked that the court remand his client until May 1.

Mr Chapman said: “At the moment, there is an issue over addresses. We are in conversation with the police about that and there may be a resolution to that in the next 10 days”.

Mr Chapman indicated there will be no bail application on the next date.

He said Gallagher was only “in receipt of modest stipends” which would now “obviously cease” due to the nature of the charge and applied for legal aid.

Legal aid for this appearance was granted and Gallagher was remanded in custody to appear before Derry Magistrates Court on May 1.