MPs are examining the possibility of extending the time limit on prosecuting child abuse cases in order to help victims of abuse within the Catholic church, the Volkskrant reports on Monday.The paper says at least three victims want to take legal action against the Dutch state to make it possible for them to sue their attackers.
Parliament is already discussing draft legislation from justice minister Ivo Opstelten which would remove the statute of limitations on child abuse and other serious cases.
But he has warned this could not be applied retrospectively as it would conflict with human rights legislation.
Priests
On Friday, the Deetman commission published its findings following an 18-month investigation into the sexual abuse of children by church officials.
The commission identified at least 800 perpetrators, of whom over 100 are still alive. Up to 20,000 children may have been abused, the commission said.
Labour MP Kahadija Arib said she wanted to debate the issue with Opstelten after the Christmas break. 'Abusers should not be walking round as free men,' she told a television talk show on Sunday.
Stef Blok, leader of the ruling VVD and Emile Roemer of the Socialist Party also want to discuss changes to the time limit.
Lawyer Anneke Bierenbroodspot, who represents the three victims, says she is pleased with the politicians' position and hopes for a change in the law.
Rotterdam
Rotterdam
In another legal move, lawyer Jan Boone has started court action against the Diocese of Rotterdam, arguing the body is criminal organisation which is involved in child abuse.
Boone says former and current bishops and other senior church officials in the port city should face charges.