ROME
ABC News (Australia)
Cardinal George Pell has addressed the media after being charged with historical sexual assault offences and ordered to appear in the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on July 18.
Pell has strenuously denied all allegations. At a press conference in Rome this afternoon he claimed he is the victim of “relentless character assassination”.
Here is a transcript of what was said:
Good morning to you all. I want to say one or two brief words about my situation.
These matters have been under investigation now for two years.
There have been leaks to the media. There has been relentless character assassination — relentless character assassination — and for more than a month, claims that a decision on whether to lay charges was imminent.
I’m looking forward, finally, to having my day in court.
I’m innocent of these charges. They are false.
The whole idea of sexual abuse is abhorrent to me.
I’ve kept Pope Francis — the Holy Father — regularly informed during these long months. I have spoken to him on a number of occasions in the last week, I think most recently, a day or so ago.
We talked about my need to take leave to clear my name. So I’m very grateful to the Holy Father for giving me this leave to return to Australia.
I’ve spoken to my lawyers about when this will be necessary.
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