IRELAND
Survivors Network of Those Abused by Priests
Posted by Barbara Dorris on March 20, 2012
These recommendations, not surprisingly, are another tired, ineffective re-hash of the promises made by US bishops a decade ago, promises that have had little impact on this crisis.
No institution can police itself, especially not an ancient, rigid, secretive all male monarchy with a horrific history of ignoring and concealing child sex crimes. “Internal” reports or inquiries or recommendations by such institutions are nearly meaningless. They’re more about trying to restore a battered public image and the confidence of pained parishioners than about genuine reform.
During or after devastating clergy sex crimes and cover ups, Catholic officials will promise the sun, moon and stars to parishioners and the public, hoping to “turn the page” and deflect attention from the painful present to an allegedly more promising future. But wishing or pledging reform doesn’t create reform.
Only decisive action creates reform. And when it comes to this on-going, heinous scandal, decisive action by the church hierarchy seems to be forever lacking.
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