AUSTRALIA
Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Sydney
Catholic Communications, Sydney Archdiocese,
28 May 2013
Speaking to the six members of the Victorian Parliamentary Inquiry, a packed meeting room and overflow room for victims of abuse, support groups and media, Cardinal Pell said he was “fully apologetic and absolutely sorry” for victims of child sex abuse committed by priests or church works.
As Cardinal Pell’s appearance was streamed live he said to the committee “that is the basis for everything which I’ll now say”.
The Archbishop was Sydney was invited to appear before the Victorian Parliamentary Inquiry into the handling of sex abuse allegations during the time he was archbishop of Melbourne (1996-2001).
Originally scheduled to last from 1.30-3.30pm the Cardinal’s appearance ran to six pm with a short recess called by the Chair of the Committee, Ms G. Crozier.
Answering many repetitive questions Cardinal Pell said victims of abuse are and must be the church’s first priority. On a number of occasions he renewed his apology to victims and their families saying the terrible crimes carried out by convicted priest-paedophiles were appalling and reprehensible.
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