Bishop Peter Connors (above) of the diocese of Ballarat appeared, at the government-lead inquiry into the handling of child sex abuse cases by the Catholic Church in Victoria, Australia, today
He was asked by Committee member David O’Brien about Fr Paul Ryan a paedophile who was moved from parish to parish.
O’Brien: “Was there awareness of Ryan’s sexual problems from early on?”
Bishop Connors: ”Yes.”
O’Brien: “Was there persistent conduct in not warning parishioners?”
Bishop Connors: ”I can’t comment.”
O’Brien: “Was there a persistent determination to retain him despite the high risk?
Bishop Connors: ”Yes.”
O’Brien: “Was there a persistent disregard for victims?”
Bishop Connors: ”Yes.”
O’Brien: “There hasn’t been any investigation or explanation of how a priest like Ryan could be shifted around?”
Bishop Connors: ”No.”
O’Brien: “The church has effectively facilitated child sex offences by leaving known offenders in place?”
Bishop Connors:”I agree with that.”
O’Brien: “Very unChrist-like, isn’t it?”
Bishop Connors: ”Absolutely.”
Catholic Church ‘facilitated’ abuse (The Age)
Thanks Mark Geary
