AUSTRALIA
SBS
Source: AAP
3 JUN 2015
Australia’s Catholic archbishops have backed Cardinal George Pell as a man of integrity.
The archbishops of Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Hobart and Canberra-Goulburn said they know Cardinal Pell well and while his style can be robust and direct, underneath he has a big heart for people.
“He is a man of integrity who is committed to the truth and to helping others, particularly those who have been hurt or who are struggling,” the joint statement said on Thursday.
Cardinal Pell was one of the first bishops in the world to put in place a comprehensive church response to investigate allegations of sex abuse by Catholic clergy and to provide survivors with redress and counselling, the statement said.
“He has responded to criticisms that have been made of his handling of these matters over the years, acknowledged mistakes frankly, and apologised for them.”
Cardinal Pell has repeatedly rejected claims he tried to bribe one victim to keep quiet, ignored complaints and was involved in moving Australia’s worst pedophile priest, Gerald Ridsdale, to a different parish.
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