Fr Charles Fenech, who has been accused of sexually abusing a number of women, has been stopped from administering his duties as a priest, The Malta Independent has learnt.

Fr Frans Micallef, Dominican Provincial, in reply to questions by The Malta Independent, said that Fr Fenech has also been removed from the post of director of the Kerygma Movement.

Asked about Fr Fenech's role as director of Radju Marija, the provincial said that although the radio station forms part of the Dominican Convent, the appointment of a director does not fall under its remit.

The provincial has however directed Father Charles to hand in his resignation to the international directors of Radju Marija.

(Fr Frans Micallef, Dominican Provincial)

The Dominican Province has warned Father Fenech several times in the past and took several steps against him. It pointed out that there were several times when accusations were levelled against him and later withdrawn.

The province said that in this way it is not passing judgment on Father Charles, but it is considering all eventualities.

It said it is always ready to cooperate with the police for the whole truth to come out.

On Wednesday, The Malta Independent reported that Fr Fenech is facing charges of sexual abuse. The case regarding sexual abuse on vulnerable women by the Dominican friar has been before the Curia Response Team for at least eight years.

The Curia had told The Malta Independent that a decision on whether the priest is to continue with his duties must be taken by his religious order. The decision has now been taken.