YOUNGSTOWN The Catholic Diocese of Youngstown has announced a special task force to keep its schools and parishes safe following the recent shooting at a Catholic school in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Youngstown Bishop David Bonnar says the Diocese's schools and parishes already have emergency plans in place, with schools regularly conducting drills for emergencies, and starting on-site safety inspections last year to make sure the best practices were being followed.

However, Bonnar says even with these measures in place, the Diocese must remain vigilant.

"To that end, I am announcing the creation of a special task force to address safety and security issues at parishes and schools," Bishop Bonnar said.

Deacon Bill Bancroft, the Diocesan Director of Safety Services and a retiree of the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSP), will co-chair the effort with Youngstown Diocese Superintendent of Schools Dr. Steven Jones.

The task force will work directly with law enforcement and other first responders to ensure the safety of schools and parishes.

"I know these can be unsettling issues to have to confront, but the safety of our students and families demands we do so," Bishop Bonnar said.