The nation's workplace watchdog has received confidential statements from several former Scientology workers who claim they were underpaid, or not paid, for at least a decade.

In a statement the diocese said it has sold property and used its cash reserves but these options are almost exhausted.

"Ultimately the diocese and each parish depend on the generosity of the faithful in the weekly collections and other contributions for the funding of our activities and the meeting of our commitments. We are continually grateful for their generosity and support."

Like the Dublin diocese which last week admitted it was on the brink of financial collapse, the Cloyne diocese says it is in this position because of a downturn in those coming to Mass, a fall-off in donations and the settlements it has reached with victims of sexual abuse.

The Cloyne diocese made the World news when the Murphy Report criticised Bishop John Magee for writing one report for the Vatican and falsely telling the State the diocese was reporting all abuse allegations to civil authorities.

Ireland's Prime Minister Enda Kenny recently slammed the Vatican, calling its handling of the sexual abuse scandal as "elitist" and "narcissistic".

Next month talks begin to discus who compensates the victims, and the Irish Government is wanting the Catholic Church to hand over cash and real estate worth around NZ$2.4 billion, which is a long way short of what the religious organisations have offered.

In 2002, the government agreed to cap the religious orders' contribution at NZ$222 million, however false reporting of sexual abuse cases to state authorities means the government is now looking for a greater contribution from the Church.

Bishop Magee has returned to Ireland but is hiding from the public eye.

Sources

• Independent
• CathNews
• Independent
• Image: NJ News