The Bishop of Raphoe Philip Boyce has defended his decision to promote a priest convicted of voyeurism.

Fr Patrick McGarvey was appointed parish priest of Fanad, last month.

Six years ago he was banned from the Foyleside shopping centre in Derry after pleading guilty to spying in men’s toilets.

Bishop Boyce said: “He has apologised for his actions in the past, which did not constitute child sexual abuse, and he has paid a high price for it. Not to appoint him parish priest now could be construed as further punishment which would be unwarranted,” he said.