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  Bishops Say Doyle Has Full Support

By Maria Rae editor@examiner.com.au
Examiner [Australia]
November 6, 2003

Bishops from around the country have rallied to support Archbishop of Hobart, the Most Rev. Adrian Doyle, amid calls for him to resign.

A spokesman for Archbishop Doyle said yesterday the Bishops of Australia had officially given their full support.

"He receives daily cards, letters, e-mails and phone calls from people wishing him well," the spokesman said.

The Archbishop told ABC radio yesterday that he believed among a small group of people there was a campaign to have him resign over his handling of complaints of sexual abuse.

But he said he had also received a high level of support.

"I think we're all human and we all make some mistakes," he said.

"I believe I have very strong support in the wider Catholic community.

"They know as bishop ... I have tried very hard and worked very hard."

He also reaffirmed his decision to remain in his position as head of the Archdiocese of Hobart.

"I intend to see this through," he said.

"I know it's difficult but I believe that there are provisions we can take and these issues I would like to be able to address them and be with the Catholic community in this very difficult time."

Tasmanian Council of Priests secretary and Launceston Catholic Parish priest Father Richard Ross said the council had unanimously passed a vote of confidence endorsing Archbishop Doyle's leadership last week.

"The Archbishop has offered his apology to the victims and their families for the mistakes he has made in dealing with this issue," Fr Ross said.

"It is my firm conviction that none of the Archbishop's mistakes were made with malicious intent, and far from calling for his resignation I am confident that having learned from this horrendous mess, Adrian Doyle is qualified now more than ever to lead the Catholic people of Tasmania."

"Have your say: E-mail editor@examiner.com.au or write a letter to PO Box 99, Launceston 7250.

 
 

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