The Catholic Church’s child protection agency has
admitted that victims of clerical abuse have at times been treated with
suspicion and without sufficient respect.
The
Catholic Safeguarding Advisory Service (CSAS) says in its latest
newsletter that the Church is reluctant to apologise to victims as it
could leave it open to further legal challenges.
The CSAS said the
Church should provide “care pathways” for traumatised victims.
However,
Margaret Kennedy, who runs the group Minister and Clergy Sexual Abuse
Survivors, said the Church should fund independent groups to carry out
the care needed, as many victims wouldn’t use a church-run service.
SIC: NSS/INT'L