AUSTRALIA
ABC News
Almost three years after the suicide of a Newcastle man who was abused by a notorious paedophile priest, his former partner is relieved his and other suicides may be scrutinised by the Royal Commission into Child Abuse.
John Pirona was abused as a teenager by Father John Denham at Newcastle’s St Pius Catholic high school, and at the age of 45 took his own life.
An independent group has now been formed to compile a list of around 30 Hunter region suicides believed to be linked to clergy abuse, to be forwarded to the Royal Commission.
Tracey Pirona said it is the least that could be done for her late husband, and for the many other local families who have lost loved ones.
I don’t think these people understand what they have done to the victims, it’s something they never get over and yes, the Royal Commission needs to look at the effect of this.
Tracey Pirona, whose former partner John committed suicide in July 2012.
“I don’t think these people understand what they have done to the victims,” she said.
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