Statement of the Diocese of London Regarding Snap’s Publication of a List of Sexual Abusers

Diocese of London
December 5, 2019

https://www.dol.ca/news/statement-of-the-diocese-of-london-regarding-snaps-publication-of-a-list-of-sexual-abusers

Statement of the Diocese of London

Re: SNAP’s publication of a list of sexual abusers

5 December 2019

As a Diocese, we wish to express our utmost regret for the suffering that has been incurred as a result of clergy sexual abuse. As we review the list published by SNAP, we can confirm that it appears to be substantially correct. We cannot confirm its accuracy in its entirety. Certain cases, for instance, were resolved by the Religious Orders themselves. We can confirm, however, that there are four other priests against whom allegations involving minors have been made. None of the priests continues to work within the Diocese or elsewhere in the Church.

We are sorry for the pain that clergy sexual abuse has caused, and we are committed to vigilantly protecting those who are vulnerable, to supporting survivors, and to swiftly addressing allegations. Bishop Fabbro has met with many survivors and their families. As a result of lessons learned within these conversations, we believe that there is no one way for survivors to respond and to heal from abuse. Only survivors of abuse, therefore, have the right to determine whether to publicly disclose their stories or not. We work with survivors to respond to their individual needs.

As part of a commitment to supporting survivors and allowing them to determine whether or not to reveal information about their experiences, Bishop Fabbro waived confidentiality requirements from all settlements in our Diocese. That way, those who wish to tell their story may do so, and those who are concerned about being inadvertently identified can choose to remain protected by confidentiality.

While these are incredibly difficult conversations, it is important that we continually look inward to keep our Diocese a safe place for all members of our community. We will readily cooperate with police and judicial authorities whenever an investigation is required. We are committed to reviewing, updating, and promoting the Diocese's “Safe Environment Policy,” with prevention and healing as our guiding principles.