Dear Editor: I am a devout reader of the N.Y. Daily News and was recently angered by the accusations made against our Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio by Assemblywoman Marge Markey, who claimed that the Bishop offered her a $5,000 bribe to withdraw legislation she was introducing that would punish church institutions who cover up sexual abuse against minors and extend the statute of limitations.

This allegedly happened six-to-ten years ago depending on whose account you believe. The Daily News also indicated that Markey is a “devout Catholic.”

The damage done against our diocese is probably immeasurable and cannot be undone. I am sure that many Catholics who read the headlines and the story thought, “Well so that is where my donations go” and thus they may not donate in the future. What is our bishop to do? Respond with a libel suit against Markey?

Based on the corroborated rebuttal put forth by the bishop in which a nun in attendance has the same recollection as the bishop, it appears as if Marge Markey’s accusation is unfounded. However she refuses to apologize. I hope my fellow Catholics join me and give the bishop the support he deserves against the unacceptable accusations set forth by another “Catholic Politician.”

THOMAS MURAWSKI

Glendale