DERRY DIOCESAN TRUST CORPORATE TRUSTEE'S REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 The Directors of the Corporate Trust88 presenl their report and financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2023. The financial stalements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in note 1 to the financial slalements and comply with the charity's constitution, the Charities Act (Northern Ireland) 2008 and "Accounting and Reporting by Charilies.. Statement of Recommended PractlC8 applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ir8land (FRS 1021 (effective 1 January 2019)" The Diocese of Dery is a Diocese of the Roman Catholic Church in Ireland wilh th6 majorlty of its parishes and activities being within Northern Ireland and smaller but significant body of its parishes and activities being in the Republic of Ireland. Derry Diocesan Trust is a charity registered with the Chanty Commission for Northern Ireland. Derry Diocesan Trust is in essence th8 registered charity and civil law form of the Diocese of Dery. ObJectlve3 and actlvltles The principal objects of the charlly are.. the advancement of the Roman Catholic religion in the Roman Calholic Diocese of Derry subject to any future curtailment or addition of aréa mad6 in accordance with the laws and regulations of the Roman Catholic Church., and thé advancement of any charitable purpose supported by th8 Roman Catholic Church throughout the wortd or in any part of th8 world. The territory COV8red by the Diocese of Dery is made up of 51 Parishes across parts of Counties Derry, Tyrone and Donegal and a very small part of CountyAntrim. The Church in Derry, in union wlth the Catholic Church worldwide, seeks to achieve its objectiV8S through actlvities including the following.. Proclamalion of the Gosp81 Worship of God Provision of Clergy and pastoral p8rsonnel Formation and development of parish communitles Support for families Provision of educational, pastoral and youth ministri8S Provision and maintenance of places of worship Aid for impoverished and needy ¢ommunities worldwide. The means used to fulfil th8 purpogÉs of thé Diocesan Trust are constantly monitor8d 8nd r8viaw8d in ord8r to ensure Ihat the principal aims and obl8Ctive$ of thè Charity are adhered to. Statement that the Corporatè Trustèo has had rogard to tho Charlty Commlsslon for Northern Ir8land publlc benoflt requlrement statutory guidance The Corporate Trustee confirms that is has paid due regard to the public benefit guidance issued by th8 Charity Commission for Northern Iraland in determining the activities undertaken by Ihe charity. Proclamation of the Gospel and Worshlp of God Within the Diocese religion is nomially advanced through th8 building of parish communities. This includes provision of places of worship, the facilitation of religious practlc8 and through community ¢elebrations of the Liturgy and the Sacraments. There is a public celebration of Mass every day in the majority of Parishes and on every weekend several community Masses are currently celebrated in public in 50 of the 51 Parishes of the Diocese. All such celebrations are open to the public without any restrictions. Other activities of the charity include conducting religious ceremonies (such as baptisms, weddings and funerals), running programmés pertaining to spiritual formation and developmenl, encouraging and supporting inter-church relationships and maintaining places of worship, many of which are listed and contain religious works of art and other artefacls all of which form pari of our national heritage. As these places of worship are open to the general public, people of all faiths or none, they provide a public benefit for the whole community and for many people they are spaces which offer the opportunity for quiet reflection and for spiritual contemplation.
DERRY DIOCESAN TRUST CORPORATE TRUSTEE'S REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 It is within Parishes that P8ople experience what it is to be a memb8r of the Catholi¢ Church and where faith is nurtured and given expression. Parishes, through various means, provide for the moral and spiritual wellbeing of parishioners. Practical expressions of faith are manifested through the means of Parish organised pastoral, social and educational activities, many of which rely on the voluntary involvement of parishioners. As well as pastor81 care and the provision of the Sacramènts to the members of parish communities, the Diocese offers chaplaincy services to those who cannot be part of a regular parish community. Hospital Chaplains are available at all th8 major hospitals within Ihe Dioc8se of D8rry. Tha Chaplains are regularly available to patients, patients, relatives and stsff and are on call to attend in 8mergen¢ies. The Diocese also provides chaplaincy services In HMP Magilligan. The Important role played by volunteers who participate in the various activities of th8 Parlsh cannot be overstated and their contribution is vital in enabling the Diocese to continue to fulfil and develop ils slaled objectives. Volunteers generously givè of their time serving in various ministries, caring for and visiting the sick, Ihe housebound and thos8 on the margins of society. They play a significant rol8 in h81ping io maintain ParSsh property and assisting in financial and othèr administrative duties, such as through membership of Parlsh Pastoral, Fin8nce and Safeguarding Committees. Such parishioner5 are the lifeblood of their communitl8s and their contribution is significant. The Diocese has around 850 volunteers who provide a voluntary contribution to the Diocese within their respective Parishes on a regular basis. Although th8 charity relies principally on donations from parishioners for its fvnding, access to religious services is never r8Stricted on the grounds of financial contributions. In addition, members of the Catholic community are encouraged, as a consequence of their faith commitment, to Gontribute towards creating a better society by becoming active volunleers within Ih8ir local area through membership of charities, local societl8s and community groups, The vast majority of Parishes have a Conference of the Sl Vincènt De Paul Society which collect funds at weekend Masses and confidentiality provides financial and other support to people in need, irrespective of religious officiation. Alongside the work accomplish8d In the Parishes, the Curia, the central administrative office of the DIoc8se, coordinates and carries out a number of 6ssential functions necessary for the advancement of Catholic r81igion at local, national and int8mational level. In order to do this, the Curia operates through Diocesan Committees and through various p8rsonnel Charged with specific responsibilities. Provlslon of Clergy Central to Parish life is the relalionship between the Parish Pri8St, Curates and parishioners. Clergy are nol employees of the Diocese, however, in Canon Law the care and welfare of incardinated Priests of the DI0$e Is mandatory and is, therefore, part of the charity's ongoing commitments. Support for Famllles Family Ministry within the Diocese is d8dicat8d to slrength8ning marriage and families by coordinating pastoral programs and ministries that have failh as their foundation and Christ as their goal. By responding to the needs of today's families, as they strive to live in a very challenging culture and a rapidly changing worfd, 'Family Ministry, serves as a resource for families, clergy and parish communities. Educallon The Diocese of Derry continues to dedicate personnel who support the work of the 135 schools which are in Catholic Trusteeship within the DI0Se of Derry. This programme not only engages with classroom teachers, schools, leadership and Govérnors but also promotes strong links with the local parish communities in the interest of a rounded education.
DERRY DIOCESAN TRUST CORPORATE TRUSTEE'S REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 Crlterla for measurlng progress against alms and obJectlves The nature of the objectives and activities of th8 Diocesan Trust are such that it is difficult to measure and assess success using quantitative or other similar measurement methodologies. However, the Diocesan Trust is satisfied that it has conlinued to engage in levels of activity that safeguard the achievement of its cora objectives which in turn continue to sustain the promotion and practice of Catholic failh within and beyond the Diocese. The Diocese has succeeded in providing clergy, pastoral personnel and resources to sustain the structure and activities of parishes. 11 has succeeded in mainlaining programmes of activity in supporting failh-based education, providing pastor81 support to communities, families, young peop18 and p80pl6 who have become marginalised in soci8ty. 11 has succeeded in maintaining In good condition th8 buildings and properties that it holds to resource its k8y objectiv8s in current times and into th8 long-term future. At the heart of the Diocesan strategy, there has been the developmenl of a culturo and vision which acknowledg8S emerging realities but avoids promoting a gloomy picture of the future. The Diocese believes that this is essential if the DioGese is to be a bearer of hope and healing in the fa¢8 of many real challenges. Achlevefflents and p8rforman¢e The COVID pandemic brought very significant difficulties for the Diocese in carrying on its primary activities of promotion of the Catholic faith and proclamation of the Gospel across all fifty-one parishes in the Diocese of Derry. However. it is a key feature of the Diocesan strategy to prepare parish communitios for changing times and any cha118ng8S to our mission focus. The Dlocese of Dery has sought to respond to changing social Contexts. Two dedicated Dioc8san Pastoral personnel are employed to help parishes develop new ways of reaching out to people who, for whatever reason, do not attend church regularly. Two Diocesan Youth workers have be8n developing ways of cornmunicaling wilh young people, many of whom ar8 so-called 'digital natives,. Sinc8 2022, the Diocese of Derry has developed a Synodal Process as part of th8 Universal Church process and of the Irish Synodal Pathway. This has involved facilitating parish and deanery-based conversats'ons, leading to the development of Diocesan submissions to documentation for the Catholic Church in Ireland. Synod Proces8 Following the 2021 announcement by Pop8 Francls of a Synod of Bishops, on the theme of synodalily wlth th8 official lit18 'For a Synodal Church: Communion. Participation, and Mission,, during 2023 the Diocese continued its local preparation, listening and dialogue In advance of the Synod of Bishops, the first session of which look place from 4- 29 October 2023. Since that flrsl session, the Diocese has furth8r angaged with parish communities, to provide a response lo Ihe following question.. How can we imagine the life of the Church in Ireland where people are co-responsible for th8 Church's mlsslon In dlfferent ways? Parlshes report a gradual relum to active parish life, although many congregatlons are not as large as pre-COVID. Diocesan staff offered training lo parishes to ensure thal best use could be made of modern technology and clergy were upskilled to make use of new opportunities. The Catechetical Centre and the Youth Commission developed innovative and offective way5 of contacting and supporting both schools and young people. Thus the Diocese has been able lo continue its work of providing pastoral support to P80plè in the 51 parishes in both the Northern Ireland and Republi¢ of Ireland jurisdictions. The Diocesan Trust has continued to seek to apply its resources to provide pastoral support to communities and farnilies in its parishes, and by the end of 2023 has developed the range of programmes which are delivered by lergy alongside staff and volunteers in parishes. In addition, there are programmes which are coordinated and delivered across the Diocese by the Diocesan Catechetical Centre and the Diocesan P8Stor81 Centres. Pastoral programmes include support for the elderly and sick, youth d8velopment programmes and programmes delivered in conjunction with schools.
DERRY DIOCESAN TRUST CORPORATE TRUSTEE'S REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 The Trust is involved actively in 8ducation and practical engagement with the environmentsl challenges facing the planet and is committ&d lo continuing its efforts and il monitors on a continuous basis ils progress in this area. The Diocesan Trust also seeks lo carry on activities which meet its charitable objectives beyond the geographical territory of the Diocese of Derry. Funds generated are then applied to missionary activities and programmes aimed at alleviating poverty beyond the Diocese of Derry and beyond Ireland. Throughout the year 2023, the Diocesan Trust continued with its regular s8ri8s of Trust and Trust Committ88 m8etings to ensur8 th8 ongoing good governanc8 of the Diocesan Trust. Development of Parlsh Loadershlp At the end of the year, seven people are employed in Parish FaithlPastoral Coordination in parishes across the dI0se. Buncrana, Claudy. Banagher, Steelstown, St Eugene's Cathedral, Long Tower and the Three Patrons parish. Thoir focus is on faith formation, how parish communitiès work to teach and hand on faith, develop new ways of lèarning and practising falth and building up community, and developing new ways of gathering communities for prayer. The Diocesan Mission team has gathèred this group, along with the Youth Ministry Team, the Cat&chelical Centre. the Columba Community and the T8monbacca team, to explore ways of collaboration and supporting 88ch other. Focus on Vocatlons At the end of the y8ar, the diocese has two students studying in Rom8 and oné in Maynooth, with one making final preparation for his prop8edeulic year in Salamanca. All the faithful of the diocase are asked to continu8 praying for vocations, through the systematic, ongoing work of the Diocesan Vocalions Dirg¢tor. Malntenanc8 of Bulldings and Property The Diocesan Trust has actively continued to manage and safeguard the condltlon of the buildings and propertl8S that il holds in trust to meet its charitablè objectives including churches, parish halls and parochial houses. The Trust aims to maintain 811 properties in a good state of repair and has completed a numb8r of substantial repair and refurbishment projects during the year. Projects of this nature are financed through a mix of parish financi81 reserves, project fundraising programmes and collections, special-purpose donations and grant funding from extemal bodies. The maintenance and r8furbishment of property and buildings assist in safèguarding the ongoing activities of th8 Dlocese and also benefit th8 broad8r ¢ommunily through the protection and safeguarding of the buill environment and heritage buildings. Structural Change for more effective outreach Having reviewed along with the clergy of the Diocese, who are most directly affected, Bishop McKeown has proposed creating pastoral communities, with a missionary focus, where the current aim is to have at least two priests in each pastoral community. The purpos8 IS to carry out more effectively the outreach misslon of thè diocese. The first thr88 of these 8reas have been established. Thls model will give parishes more of an opportunity of working cooperatively with their neighbours, sharing th8ir gifts, talents and resources. Parishes, while retaining their individual parish identity, will shar8 c18rgy. There will be a gradual introduction of thes8 ar8as over a period of years. The Diocese continues its work of providing pastoral support to the communities and families in the 51 parishés in the Diocese, as they face many of the challenges of a changing society, with a focus on the mission of sharing tha positive message of the Gospel. On*olng engagement with Youth and Schools In the Dlocese The Diocese, supported by Dery Diocesan Trust, conlinu&s to assist the work of the primary and post-primary schools which are in Catholic Trusteeship. In 2023, the Di0Se hosted ils second Religious Education Conference for primary and post-primary school teachers in the Diocese. Organised by the Calechetical Centre, il was held in Saint Columb's College, Derry with, as main topics. 'Building Communities of Dialogue,, 'Forgiveness and Catholic Schools as Essential Places of Evangelisation,. Part of the conference included an evening gathering of parishes In the Diocese, focuséd on 'Building Parish Life.. Attendance was vèry high for all events. Reaching out to young people and a commitment to youth ministry remains a top priority of the Diocase and a significant financial investment.
DERRY DIOCESAN TRUST CORPORATE TRUSTEE'S REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 The Diocese continues to support the work of the primary and post-primary schools which are in Catholic Trusteeship. In June 2023 the Derry Diocesan Catechetical Centre organis8d the annual 'Fan the Flame. gathering In Celtic Park. Over 3,000 pupils who recen#y received the Sacramènt of Confirmation attended, from schools in the Diocese of Derry. An interesting initiative, 'Ambass8dors of Peace,, has been developed by the CatechetlC81 Centre in an effort lo help children understand the gift of the peace of Jesus in their lives and how they are called to live that out as role mod8ls at home, in school and in their community. The initiative is design8d for final year pupils in primary school, with the young p80ple being encourag8d to connect the gift of the Holy Spirit in the Sacrament of Confimiation with their daily lives, their int8ra¢lions with friends and family, and becoming 'peacemak8rs wherever you are, wherever you live,. Funding of Parlshes The Diocese and its parishes rely largely on donations from parishioners to fund its pastoral programmes, to maintain its buildings and properties and to meet its running costs. In overall terms, Parishes and th8 Diocese have been able to continue to meet costs and the Diocesan Trust has provided advice and support to Parishes where financial difficulties have b88n most acute. The Diocese has explored new methods of r8ceiving donations. The new 'conta¢tless payment system, will be installed in many parishes over the next year. Laudato Sl and Envlronmental Stratègy In his 2015 encyclical Laudato Sl, Pope Francis made a gr8at call for the pral¢al care of our plan8t, our common home, 8specially in this lime of climate change. He challenged both the church and the entire world to èngage wilh the 6nvironmental challenges prgsented by climate chang8. Ovèr the past few years since the prasèntation of Laudato Sl, the Diocese of Derry has been engaging with Ihe issues raised, and is moving towards the Implemenlalion of The Diocese of Derry Environmental Strategy which was approved by the Truste8 Board on 31st March 2023 and will be kept under regular review. This strategy provides concrete oblectives, as well as practlcal proposals, In terms of land usage, food, energy usage, design and management of Diocesan and parish properties, water and waste management, and transport, as well as the crucial matters of implementation and monitoring. The areas are focussed on actions by the diocese and parishes, and by groups or individuals. A pilot programme was implemented in mid-2023 across four parishes or clusters of parishes covering the Diocesan Deanery areas. There was an open call in each of the parish newsletters for int8r8Sted parties to join the programme and a series of meetings has taken pla over the year across the parishes. Involvement has nol been restricted to the nominated parishes with many members joining from neighbouring parishes and to dale there has been inter-generational, cross-cornmunity and cross-border participation which is encouraging. A number of planling activlties took place in Three Patrons and Castl8derg parishes and other initiatives include development of relevant but accessible messaging, litter-picking events, energy us8ge and sustainability audits and decarbonisalion stratègies, and planning for biodiversity and r8-wilding schemes. Environmental initiatives are not restricted to those parishes taking part in the pilot programme and a number of other parishes have undertaken associated activities such as screenings of The Letter, A Message For Our Earth, film (which includes exclusive dialogue with Pope Francis) and switching lo more energy efficient lighting, which also has added financial benefits. Laudata Deum is an apostolic exhortation by Pope Francis, published on 4th October 2023. It was ralaas8d on the 2023 Feast of St Francis Assisi as a follow-up to Laudato Sl. Education and awareness of environmental issues are essential. In addition to regular social media posts, a month- long 'Season of Creation, was promoted in every parish from 1st September 2023 until 4th October 2023 and resources were shared from the Laudato Sl movement in Ireland. Prayers focusing on caring for creation and messages for inclusion in parish bulletins were developed and shared with the priests during this season, and during Lent together wilh promotion of the Trocaire Lenten Campaign. There has also been engagement during the year with local council representatives, local schools and the Diocesan Laudato Si group. A presentation on the Diocesan Environmentsl Strategy and parish pilot programme was delivered lo the Conference of Clergy in Octobèr 2023.
DERRY DIOCESAN TRUST CORPORATE TRUSTEE'S REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 150th Annlversary of St Eugene's Cathedral St Eugene's Cathedral, Derry is the Mother Church of th8 Diocese of Derry. 2023 saw the 150th anniversary of the Cathedral. To mark the sesquicentennial of the Cath6dral's opening in May 1873, Bishop McKeown led a Dioc8san celebration in the cathedral, at which all parishes were represenled. The Bishop wore a new chasuble that had been made for the occasion, designed and created by Marie Horton. a former shirt factory worker, in order to remember, honour and celebrate the women of Derry who worked for so many decades in the shirt factory industry. In line with the focus on environmental responsibility, at the end of the celebration every parish in the Diocese was presented wilh two oak tr88s for planting in parish soil. All of this was arranged as part of th8 Strat8gy to promote the post COVID 19 r8-8nergizing of th8 Diocese and its mission. Safeguardlng Creating a safe environment for everyone and specifically for yOLtng people and adults at risk is of fundamental importance to the work of the Diocese. The Diocese has a clear slrategy for creating a safe environment for all those who access its premises and programmes. The Diocesan structurès were independently audited in Septemb6r 2023 on b6half of the National Board for Safeguarding Children in the C8tholic Church in Ireland. The published rèport of the audit assessed all the safeguarding standards had been achievèd in the Diocese of Derry. The Diocese of Derry is very conscious ofthe potential for major damage caused to the charity's mission. reputation and resources by any abuse of chlldren or adults at risk. Investment pollcy and performance The Diocesan Trust has an Investment Policy which s81s oul assessment crit8ria for investments including lev81s of risk and performance. The primary financial objecliv8 of the Diocesan Trust is to ensure that the current and future financial and pastoral obligations of the Diocese of Derry can be met. The Trust séeks to produce the best financial relum within an acceptable level of risk, maintaining a balance beeen long-term capital growth and income growth. The investment objective is lo generate a return as specified in th8 Tnjst's Investment Policy over a rolling thr88-year period. A moderate amount of risk can b8 laken in order lo achieve this obje¢tive. The Investment Policy Includés a number of areas in which, for ethical réasons, Ihe Diocesan Trust aims not invest. In particular investment Is avoided in areas where the holdings include organlsations whose main business and revenue derives from the manufactur6, production, promotion or sale of goods and services in thé following sectors.. abortion, Ontrap110n, deféncg and armaments. médical research methods involving uses of embryos specifically created for medical research or the use of embryonic or foelal material for stem cell research and pornography. Following the 2015 encyclical Laudato Si, from Pope Francis, on the care of the planet particularly in a lime of climate change, a major five-year vIeW document was issued In 2020 by the Holy See, 8ntilled Journeying Towards Care for Our Common Home. One of the practical matters raised in the latter docurnent was the move from fossil fuels, both in terms of gradual global replacement by renewable energy Ip. 134} and "evaluating progressive disinvestment ffom the fossil fuel sector" (p. 179). The Council (Board of Directors} of the Corporate Trustee approved a Diocesan Environment81 Strategy during 2023, the original draft coming from the DioGesan Laudato Si, Group. The Diocesan Environmental Strategy includes the need for a °r8view by the Diocese to avoid any direct holdings in fossil-fuel-related funds, following the lead already set by other Irish Dioceses" (full document on diocesan website). Subsequent to this, the Council of the Corporate Trust8e initiated a review of the Investrnent Policy, which was ongoing at year end, to addr8ss fossil-fuel-related investrn8nts. The Diocesan TrLrst holds a number of investment portfolios, and it has several investmgnt managers. Performance is measur6d and assessed on an ongoing basis in the context of performance returns, portfolio risk profile and compliance with the Trust's ethical requirements.as set out in the investment policy. During 2023 the Truste8 Board was generally satisfied with the investment portfolios in terms of the thre8 criteri8 lisled above. However, one portfolio was assessed as generating an unsat15factory performance return up to 2023 year end, and accordingly a transfer of funds to another investment manager took place after the year 6nd.
DERRY DIOCESAN TRUST CORPORATE TRUSTEE'S REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 Flnanclal review Details of the income and 8xpenditure for the current and previous financial years are shown in the Statement of Financial Activities on pages 16 - 17. Totsl income for the year was £13,365,404 of which £10,941,084 was generated by Parish8s and £2,424,320 was generated by ntral Curia funds. The principal funding source of the Diocesan Trust in 2023 has continued to be donations from parishion6rs which have been used primarily to fund the costs of pastoral activlty, maintenance of buildings and administration in the particular parishes in which the donations ware received. Total expenditure for the year was £12,365,056 of which £9,794,006 was expended by Parishés and £2,571,050 was expended from central Curia funds. Therefore inGome exceeded 8xpendilure for the year by £1,000,348. There were net gains on r8valuation of investments to market value of £1,580,765 {2022'. net losses of £1,997,844) which combined with st8rling-8uro exchange adjustments resulted In net Incoming resources for the Dioc8se of £2,578,506 (2022.. net outgoing resources £2,128,240). The Diocesan Trust holds reserves of £78.742,476 at 31st December 2023 (2022.. £76,163,970) comprising restricted reserves of £73,816,550 {2022'. £71,014,644) and unrestrictèd reserves, which exclude parish reserves, of £4,925,92612022'. £5,149,326). Details of the amounts and purposes of restricted reserye funds are included in not8 21 in the accounts. Resorvgs pollcy The Diocesan Trust r8cognises that ils incorne arises primarily from voluntary donations and that accordingly it is Important lo seek lo carry adequate levels of reserves to ensure its ability to meet future expenditure commitments as they arise. Parishes are encouraged to maintain adequate short-t8rm reseNes to ensure that they can meet OP6raling costs in the short-term and to build longer-term reserves that will be available if substsntial commitments, such as buildings refurbishment projècts, arise in Ihe future. The Diocese c8ntrally aims to maintain adequate levels of res8rv8S to meet Diocesan operatlng ¢osts In the short- to m8dium-t8rm and to provide for any significant expenditurès and contingenci8S that may arise al fvlure dates. The policy of maintaining significant long-term resetV8s is considered consistent with the expectation that the Diocese of D8rry will Continue to exist in perpetuity. The Diocesan Trust aims lo hold reserves equating to at least the average amount of operating expenditur8 for three months as Free ReseNes. Free Reserves are defined as Unrestricted Funds less Tangible Fixed Assets. Funds inv8Sted in Tangible Fixed Assets are excluded from Free Reserves as these funds cannot be released without undermining the Diocese's ability to fulfil ils principal charitable objeclives. Al 31 Decemb8r 2023, Free Reserves wer8 £4,28g.918 {2022.. £4,493,478) and r8pr8sanled 5.26 monthg 12022.. 5.71 months) of Total Operating Expenditure. Total Operating Expénditure takes into account Parish 8xp&ndlture and Is mèasured againsl central Curia free reserves. The Trusle8 considers thal Ihis level of Free Reserves is reasonable, especially at the present time, lo enable the Diocese lo fvlfil its immediate financial obligations and commitmenls and lo plan for future investment requirements. Principal rlsks and uncertainties Th6 Corporate Trustee engages in a continuous proc8ss of monitoring and identifying risk and s8eks to implemenl measures to address the risk and mitigate the impa¢l of any negative outcomes. The Corporate Truste8 Is satisfied with the charity's ability to continue as a going ¢on¢em.
DERRY DIOCESAN TRUST CORPORATE TRUSTEE'S REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 Risk Management The Trust Council acliv81y reviews all major strategic and operational risks to which the charity is exposed and confimis th8s8 have been reviewed and that strategies and syslems are established to manage exposure to these risks. The main areas of risk identified and monitored by the Trust Council include: Safeguarding Compliance with Health & Safety and listed buildings legislation Reduction in actlV8 clergy members Reduction in voluntary income Increasing ¢osts for the care of sick and retired clergy Reduction in central reserves due to capilal projects and long tarm commitments Compliance with data protection regulalions Risks in relation to fraud Plans for future perlods The Diocese of Dèrry re¢ognlses that Its core objectives of advancement of the Catholic falth and proclamation of the Gospel remain constant over time and accordingly it aims to maintsin its existing activities into the future. At the same time the Diocese recognises the changing environment in which it exists and accordingly reviews ils pastoral and operational programmes and plans on an ongoing basis in an effort lo ensure that il continLbes to meet its primary objectives in the context of a changing environment. The Dioc8se is carrying out a process of review involving broad consultation to plan how it will succ88d in dalivering its pastoral Work in tha futura givan the challenges that exist in terms of numb8rs of cI6rgy, participation of lay people in church life and finance. In 2023, the Diocese appointed one of the clergy to promot8 the upskllling of parishion8rs for th8 purpos8 of incr8as8d involvement in promoting th8 mission of the Diocese. The DIoc8S8 is actively r8sponding to initiatives put in plac8 by Pope Francis including work to incorporate the principles of Laudato Si into the life and work of the Diocese and its parishes and Synodality programmes in advancè of the Synod of Bishops Assemblies in Romè (October 20241- Furthermore, Ih8r8 is a schèdule of residential and non-residential programmes for ¢lergy to support them In reviewing their pastoral strategies for changing tim8S. Th8 Trust has begun the implementation of its Diocesan Environmental Strategy but there is plenty more to do and ther8 is a genuine urgency in seeking to address the environmental challenges facing the world. In the year ahead, the Trust hopes to continue to raise awareness of environmental matters across the Diocese via events, communications and encouragement of prayer and reflection as well as encouragement to grow flowers, plants, fruit and vegetables and to make practical changes to our habits in order to care for our common home. Drawing on the centenary events for St Brigid and Sl Francis, and continuing to celebrate the inspiration of these saints with respect to natur8 and creation, it will plan ahèad for th8 10th anniv6rsary of Laudato Sl. It intends to participate actively in initiatives planned by D8rry City and Strabane District Council in the first instance. with potenllal to allgn wllh other local councll areas wlthln the Dlocese. Through the pllot programme, the TNst plans to complete a number of sustalnabillty audits and further develop the decarbonisation strategy, to develop a pilol community garden project as well as a re-wilding biodiversity project and to continue to link with local schools, celebrating their environmenlal endeavours and promoting opportunities for our young people to learn about the environment and Glimate matters. It also hopes lo develop a proj8Ct to benefit a community within a country significantly impacted by climate change. In the Synod procass, the Diocese will conlinue its local dialogue, listening and discemmenl with parish communities in advance of the second session of the Synod of Bishops, which will tske place in October 2024. There will be further synodal listening encounters in 2024, using the 'Conversations in the Spirit, model, which has been used extensively in the Synodal Palhway. including gatherings specifically aimed al young people, organised by the Diocesan Youth Ministry team. Two priesls from the Diocese will travel to Rome, joining a group of 200 from all over the wortd, taking part in an intemational synodal meeting of priests. All of Ihis will feed into preparation for the next session of the Synod of Bishops. In relation to the development of parish leadership, the Diocesan Mission team have planned a retr8aUday of reflection in Autumn 2024 with the seven Parish Faith I Pastoral Coordination employees, along with olher groups. In 2024 the team will present 'Leading God's People in Prayer,, a four-session series focussing on formation in prayer leadership and equipping lay people to lead public prayer in the City Deanery. The same programme will later be presented in the County Derry Deanery.
DERRY DIOCESAN TRUST CORPORATE TRUSTEE'S REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 Structure, governance and management The Roman Catholic Diocese of Derry exists in civil law as the registered charity Derry Diocesan Trust, a charitable trust established by a Trust Deed dated 20th July 2009. On 7th July 2016, Derry Diocesan Trust became registered as a charity with the Charty Commission for Northern Ireland under charity registration number NIC 105256. For tax purposes, Derry Diocesan Trust is also registered with HM Revénue and Customs as holding charitable tax status. The solè Corporate Trustee of the Charity is St Columb's Diocesan Trust, a company limited by guarante&. Th8 Corporate Trustee is authorised by the Lord Chief Justice of Northern Ireland to act in any charitable or 8cclasiaslical trust as a trust Gorporalion. The Dioc8san Trusl is Currently carrying out a r8vi8w of its governance structures and arrangements with the support of an independent professional firm. The operation of the charity Is overseen by the Corporate Truste6. Th& Directors of the Corporate Trustee ara appointed by the Bishop of Dery who 15 Chair of the Board {Trust Council). The Corporate Trustee which served during the year and up to th8 date of signature of the financial statements was: St. Columb's Diocesan Trust The directors which served on the Board of the Corporate Trusle8 during the year and LJP to the date of signature of tha financial slatements wer8.. Most Reverend Donal McK8own Revèrend Michael Canny Reverend Paul Mccafferty Mr Shaun McElhinney Mr Sean O'Kan8 Reverend Michael McC8ughey Ms Aine Gallagh8r Mr Ciaran Hampson Ms Fiona Schlindwein Ms Br8nda Morrls Recruitmènt and appolntment of Trust808 Recruitment of Directors is based upon their knowledge of the local Church and their having the professional skills and experience nec8ssary for overseeing the affairs of the charity by ensuring it is solvent, well run, and that il delivers the outcom8s for which it is established. Inductlon and tralnlng of Trustees New members of the Board of tho Corporote Trustoe are given an introduction to the structuré and goveman¢e arrangements of the Diocesan Trust and to the roles and responsibilities of the members of the Board of the Corporate Trustee and ils Committees upon appointment. The Di0san Trust will provide a number of training days for members of the Board of the Corporate Trustee. Training days are delivered by extemal professional firms with relevant expertise and focus on d8V81opments In chatity law and practice and on charity governance and management. 10-
DERRY DIOCESAN TRUST CORPORATE TRUSTEE'S REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 Organlsational structur8 Reflecting Canon Law, the activilies of the charity are separated in this report into Parish and Curia functions. Parishes The Diocese is divided into Parish communities. Parish PriestslAdministrators and Curates are appointed by the Bishop to provide pastoral care for Parish communities and to manage Parishes in all juridical affairs thus ensuring Parishes ara administered in accordance with the nomis of Canon and Civil Law while fulfilling the aims of the Charity. Each Parish Is required by Canon Law to have a Finance Committee to asslst the Parish PriesUAdminislrator In lh8 administration of the Parish. Parish Financè Committees include parishion8rs with knowledge and experience in finance, property management and administration. The Diocesan Trust is currently reviewing and updating its publication Financial and Administrative Guidelines for Parishes in order to ensure that there is clear and meaningful guidance in place for Parish Priesls, Administrators, Parish Finance Committees and Parish Administrative Staff. Curia The Diocesan Curia consists of those institutions which and persons who fumish assistance to the Bishop and Trust Council in the gov6mance of the entire Diocese, especially in directing pastoral activity, in providing for the administration of the Diocese and in exercising judicial power. It also includes all who participate in the overall administralion of the Diocese, especially thosè who direct Diocesan activities such as pastoral support, youth work, education, family life, lilurgy, laity and othér facets of the local Church's life. Dalegation of management In the day-to-day manag8m8nt of the charity, the Bishop r8f8rs e¢¢leslastlc81-re18ted matters to the Chancellor of the Diocese, the Diocesan Secretary, the Vicars Gen8ral and other appropriate officials. Civil administrative matt8rs are referred to th8 8x8CUtive staff employed by the charity. The Trust Council delegates overslght of the Diocese's financial, property, investment, personnel and administralion matters to th6 Sultably qualified clergy and staff within Ihe Curia. The Board of the Corporate Trustee delegates day- to-day management of the charity (other than areas of a canonical and pastoral natur8 which ara managed by number of Diocesan clergy) to tho following Diocesan staff members.. Kevin Mccauley BS¢ FCA~ Executive Director, Derry D0¢e$an Trust Teresa McMenamin- Administrative and Financial Secretary, Derry Diocesan Trust Oonagh Robinson- Diocesan Trust Officer. D8rry Diocesan Trust Finola Downey- Administrative Officer, Derry Diocesan Trust Remuneration pollcy The process of setting pay and rémunèration of the Diocesan Trust's key management personnel is undertaken by the Bishop of th6 Diocese (who is th8 Chair of the Board of the Corporat8 Truste8) in consultation with the Di0¢8san Personnel Committee and the Board of the Corporatè Trustee. 11
DERRY DIOCESAN TRUST CORPORATE TRUSTEE'S REPORT {CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 Statement of Corporate Trustee's responslbllitles The Corporate Trustee is responsible for preparing the Corporate Trustee's Report and the financial statements in accordance wilh applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). The law applicable to charities in Northern Ireland requires the Corporate Trustee to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the slate of affairs of the charily and of the incoming resourc8S and application of resourc6s of the charity for that year. In preparing these financi81 statements, th8 Corporate Trustee is required to.. select suitab16 accounting policies and th8n apply them consistently., ObSee th8 methtyjs and princip18s in the Charltles SORP. make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent., slate whether applicable accounting standards have been followed, subject to any material dep8rture8 disclosed and explained in thè financial statements., and prepare the finan¢i81 stalements on th8 going conc8m basls unless il is inappropriate to pr8sum8 that the Charity will continue in operation. The Corporate Trustee is responsible for keeplng sufflcient a¢¢ounting records that disclose wlth rèasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and enable Ihem to ensure that the financial slalements comply with the Charitl8s Act (Northern Ireland) 2008, the Charity (A¢¢ountS and Reports) Regulations {North8m Irèland} 2015 and the provisions of the trust deed. Th8 Corporate Trustee is 81so responsible for safeguarding th8 assets of Ihe charity and hènce for taking reasonable steps for th& pr8vèntion and delection of fraud and olher irregul8rltles. The Corporate Trustee's report was approv8d by the Board of the Corporate Trustee. Most Reverend Do Dlrèctor of st C al McKeown b's DIoGesan Trust - Corporale Trustee of Derry DloGesan Trust Dated.. 28 Jun8 2024 12-