Father Peter Dwyer, 65, now a Catholic priest in Armidale, was removed from his office by his local bishop after being charged late on Wednesday afternoon with four offences alleged to have occurred at the college in 1987 and 1988.

The priest has proclaimed his innocence and yesterday a statement was issued by Armidale solicitor Rodd Watt on his behalf:

“Father Dwyer has instructed me that he categorically denies the allegations and charges and he will be defending those allegations in the courts.”

The Catholic Bishop of Armidale, the Very Rev Luc Matthys, also issued a statement:

“Father Dwyer has told me that the allegations are denied by him and that he will strenuously defend the charges through the courts.

“I have taken Father Dwyer out of public ministry pending resolution of the proceedings against him.

“The church will co-operate with the authorities in this matter and I express my confidence in the public administration of justice within NSW.”

Fr Dwyer attended Armidale Police Station on Wednesday afternoon and was questioned for several hours before being formally charged.

He was bailed to appear in Bathurst Local Court on Monday, September 15.

FOOTNOTE: St Stanislaus’ College was established in 1867.

The school came under the control of the Vincentian’s in 1889, following the arrival of the Vincentian Fathers and Brothers from Ireland, with the purpose of taking over the college.

Vincentians continued in the role of President and Headmaster at the College until the commencement of 1993, when it was decided to separate the two roles.

The first lay Headmaster at Stannies is Mr John Edwards. Current key people at the college are Mr Edwards and Fr Doug Akehurst, CM (President).