Retiring Ballinrobe priest says phones ‘destroying family life’

SPEAKING at a funeral in St Mary’s Church, Ballinrobe, priest Fr Michael Gormally has said that mobile phones are ‘destroying family life’.

Fr Gormally made his remarks during the funeral Mass of the late Tony Walkin, which was attended by hundreds of people.

The long-serving priest has retired due to health reasons and is being replaced in Ballinrobe parish by Fr Denis Carney, who is moving from Balla and Mayo Abbey.

Fr Gormally served two stints as Parish Priest in Ballinrobe, which were interrupted by a spell in Achill.

During a recent homily, Fr Gormally recalled how Tony Walkin would have phones switched off while visitors called to his home. “‘When they come into the house the phones are switched off. That is a must’,” said Fr Gormally, quoting Mr Walkin. “‘And we have a beautiful time together and we’d talk and we get to know one another because the phones are off’, he says. ‘Them damn phones should never have been invented’.’

Fr Gormally continued: “I’m inclined to agree with him.

“They have destroyed family life, they have destroyed all kinds of life because we miss wonderful opportunities to listen to stories and problems, and all kinds of stuff that we are too busy being onto the world, being onto something. And at the end of the day, we’re onto nothing and we’re neglecting what we should be looking after. Tony had this perspective right.”

Speaking before Fr Gormally’s homily, Fr Denis Carney extended his sympathies to the Walkin family on the passing of Tony Walkin and wished Fr Gormally well in his retirement.

“Due to health reasons, he has had to retire a number of years before his time, but I know he will be using the time well and support all good causes and various works,” said Fr Carney.

Addressing parishioners, Fr Carney said: “It will take a while for ye to get to know me and me to get to know you, but please God we’ll work well together. The priests that have worked in this area have always been happy in it.”