DOMINICA
Dominica News
The head of the largest religious organization in Dominica says he will not be intimidated, as investigations of alleged sexual misconduct by a local priest continue.
Recently, allegations surfaced, that 19 years ago, Father Reginald Lafleur sexually abused a young woman, prompting a decision to send him on administrative leave.
However, that move did not go down well with Grandbay parishioners who staged a massive demonstration in support of Fr. Lafleur, their Parish priest, during Sunday mass.
Bishop of Roseau His Lordship Gabriel Malzaire, who, for the first time, has spoken publicly about the matter, has said that the behavior of the parishioners was unfortunate.
“As the Bishop I have rules to follow. Rules that are stated by the church. Rules that are stated by canon law-the laws that govern the church and In cases of allegations of sexual abuse in the church, we are duty bound to respond in a certain way…Unfortunately the reactions were the way it was and things were communicated the way it was communicated but I was only following the rules of the church,” he said during mass on Sunday.
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