The Pope has apologised to the victims’ of clerical sex abuse in Ireland, saying he’s “truly sorry”.

In the pastoral letter Pope Benedict says those guilty of abuse must answer for their crimes and he’s called on Bishops to admit that grave errors of judgement were made.

Pope Benedict has called on Bishops to admit that grave errors of judgement were made and failures of leadership occured.

Addressing abusers, he’s asked them to openly acknowledge their guilt and submit themselves to the demands of justice.

Pope Benedict is now calling for healing, reparation and renewal in the Church.

The letter will be read at masses across the Country this weekend.

Cardinal Seán Brady urging all Catholics to read it with an open heart and an open mind.

The Archbishop of Dublin Diarmuid Martin is welcoming the letter, saying it’s not a final word but a further step in the process of renewal and healing in the Catholic Church in Ireland.