AUSTRALIA
The Australian
CARDINAL George Pell has marked the end of his appearance before the royal commission into child sexual abuse with a public apology for the suffering endured by abused former altar boy John Ellis.
Reading from a statement, Cardinal Pell said the church had failed Mr Ellis and, as archbishop, he took ultimate responsibility for the suffering and the terrible impact on his life.
“At the end of this gruelling appearance for both of us at this royal commission, I want to publicly say sorry to him for the hurt caused him by the mistakes made,” Cardinal Pell said.
Observers in the room became agitated during Cardinal Pell’s statement, with some calling out, “Look at him”.
Cardinal Pell kept his eyes down while reading the statement but, after being excused, acknowledged Mr Ellis, who had sat in the front row throughout the hearing.
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