AUSTRALIA
The Courier
17 Apr, 2012
The push for a comprehensive and thorough investigation into abuse within the Catholic church has gained significant momentum in recent months.
While the human tragedy of multiple suicides has added to the clamour about the issue in the public arena, it is the weighty recommendations of the Cummins report into child protection that must guide this inquiry. That a possible set of terms of reference for such an inquiry have been developed should be considered a major step forward. Guiding terms of reference were what the Catholic Archbishop Denis Hart had rightfully requested in the hope of pushing toward a just outcome.
These may not be the only or the best terms for such an inquiry, but the response of the state and the church should be of commensurate seriousness to ensure progress is made.
This newspaper supports a public inquiry in the belief that its ultimate course must be about protection and prevention.
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