A Windsor priest has been relieved of his duties as the Diocese of London investigates allegations against him.
The diocese said Father Andy Dwyer has been removed from his ministry but Nelson Couto, the communications officer for the diocese, said he can’t comment on the nature of the allegations or on the investigation at this time.
Father Dwyer was pastor at St. Vincent de Paul and St. Theresa parishes in Windsor. The allegations against Father Dwyer "relate to actions of many years ago which have now surfaced," the Diocese of London said.
A letter addressing sexual abuse in the church was just read in Catholic churches across the Diocese of London on September 16 denouncing the cover-up of abuse.
Rob Talach, a London sexual abuse lawyer, said the diocese continues to handle this all wrong and should have been more open by notifying the public.
"We have a very similar, silent process. It's very insular and quiet when an allegation comes to the surface," said Talach.
Talach said if the diocese is really serious about the investigation and being transparent, they should have notified the media.
"It's both encouraging and discouraging that they have suspended this individual but we don't know why and they aren't seeking any public assistance in their investigation," he said.
Talach said the allegations are likely of a sexual nature because so much time has passed and adds that victims should not trust the diocese anymore because their motives are not genuine.
"If you are going to do a public relations event with a letter from the pulpit, you need to also be transparent and open and issue public statements when there are suspensions based on allegations," Talach said.
The Diocese of London’s "A Safe Environment Policy" states that whenever credible allegations are made against any priest, deacon or minister, that person is removed for the period of the investigation.
"There is no good time for such an announcement. It is particularly hard to hear and deal with this news in light of the recent revelations in the United States," said Couto. "Even so, we remain vigilant and faithful during this trying time in order to ensure a safe environment in our parishes and institutions."
It's unclear who is investigating or how long it will take and how many complaints have been filed against Father Dwyer or where the allegations took place.
The Windsor Police Service said it will not comment on the matter.