Parents ‘demanded’ to pay €60 for child to be confirmed at South Dublin Parish

A parent has complained that he was “advised” to pay up to €60 for his child’s confirmation at a parish in south Dublin.

Woman, who was not named, contacted RTÉ live line Program regarding a letter she received from Sandyford Parish.

“This is new to me, you have to give money to the Catholic Church to be confirmed,” said the woman.

As part of her communication with the program, the woman forwarded the community letter that Joe Duffy read on the air.

“A contribution of 60 euros is required for admission to the program,” he said.

“Due to the diversity of faiths and cultures represented in our schools, the parish team does not automatically assume that every sixth grader will attend Confirmation.”

The letter states that parents must register with the parish so that the children can participate in the Sacrament of Confirmation.

It added that while the program costs €60, parents will receive a €10 discount if they sign up before 5pm on May 31.

Meanwhile, the registration form on Sandyford Parish’s website states that the late registration course price will increase to €80.

The contribution area of ​​the online registration form states: “I am aware that if the application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on June 24, 2022, a contribution of €60 will be required for enrollment in the program. If the application is received by 5:00 p.m. on May 31, 2022, a contribution of €50 will be accepted. A late registration in September 2022 will incur a fee of €80.”

In a statement to Independent.ie, A spokesman for Sandyford Parish Sacramental Programs said: “The proposed voluntary contribution for enrollment in the Sacraments of First Communion and Confirmation at Sandyford Parish is €60.

All children who have been baptized as Catholics are cordially invited to present themselves for the sacraments. It is requested as a contribution to the costs and expenses of the parish in ensuring that the children, their families and schools prepare and celebrate these very special and important sacraments.”