The Vatican has released the long-awaited results of its investigation into the Irish church following devastating revelations of clerical sex abuse and coverup, but has delayed taking any action for several months.

The archbishop of Dublin has spoken out recently criticizing the slow pace of the Vatican’s work and Monday’s statement was likely to rile those expecting tangible results.

Pope Benedict XVI ordered the investigation in March 2010 following revelations in Irish government-ordered investigations of widespread abuse and cover-ups in the Irish church.

The Vatican says Monday’s results are preliminary and that in “the coming months” it will produce recommendations for “spiritual renewal” of the church. A final report is due in early 2012.

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Vatican postpones action on Irish sex abuse probe

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