This particular story (Tuam) was NOT something just "dug up" (ironical choice of words) to inflict harm on the Catholic church in Ireland but was recent enough that a long-overdue investigation had to be started after so many outcries from regular Irish citizens and international human rights groups forced it when the story came out. Once the outcry over the story settled down and media distortions and inaccuracies were filtered out, the only manipulation going on at this point is directed towards anyone who would DARE even discuss the story by some who seem unable to tolerate criticism directed at their church, no matter how many facts are established in the end. We shouldn't forget that recent scandals have already been uncovered over clerical sex abuse by Irish priests and bishops in schools and churches - something that was covered up and swept under the rug by higher ups for a long time - so it is not unexpected that the pump was already primed for further exposure of additional negative news involving the Catholic church in Ireland. This story did not happen in a vacuum and it is disingenuous to chalk it all up to bigotry that it was published in the first place. Air and light are the best ways to resolve human failings, pretending nothing bad ever happens is not how to correct them.
The pattern here is undeniable. Scandal and wrongdoing covered up until public outcry from something that cannot be hidden any more FORCES the issue.
Then it become damage control time which includes impugning those who dare to speak up.
Give it a rest, woman.