White Collar Crime 

81-year-old Fr. John Skehan, originally from Johnstown in Co. Kilkenny, speaks exclusively to journalist Aoife Kavanagh just weeks before he begins his 14-month sentence for Grand Theft. In an emotional interview Fr. Skehan denies that he took millions to fund a lavish lifestyle, claiming instead he used the money for the benefit of parishioners.

The documentary features unique access to the wealthy south Florida parish of St. Vincents Ferrer, where Fr. Skehan served for 40 years. And from inside prison Fr. Francis Guinan from Co. Offaly, who has begun a four-year sentence for his part in the crime, defends his use of church funds for gambling trips and property investment.

Aoife Kavanagh investigates the role of the Diocese in this scandal, revealing how concerns had been raised about the handling of church finances by Fr Guinan long before police were called in to investigate.

Director, Kim Bartley

Produced by Animo for RTE, 2008, 52’