By Tim Michell
Waverley Leader
September 19, 2011
http://waverley-leader.whereilive.com.au/news/story/oakeligh-parents-plea-for-inquiry-on-abuse/
 |
| Oakleigh parents Chrissie and Anthony Foster are pushing for an inquiry into alleged crimes by clergy. Photo by EUGENE HYLAND |
TWO signatures stand between an inquiry into the alleged sexual abuse of two Oakleigh girls and other alleged victims by Victorian clergymen.
Oakleigh parents Chrissie and Anthony Foster and Oakleigh state Labor MP Ann Barker handed the proposed terms of reference for an inquiry to Attorney-General Robert Clark recently.
And if Mr Clark and Premier Ted Baillieu sign the four-page document, seen by the Leader, a royal commission will be launched.
Ms Foster said the inquiry would ensure clergymen's victims, including her daughters Emma and Katie, could have justice.
"It takes 30 or 40 years for these children to talk about what has happened to them, and it just never stops," Ms Foster said.
The terms of reference state that: "Since 1993 more than 65 clergy have served in Victoria and have been convicted of abuse."
But Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne spokesman James O'Farrell said the church would not deviate from its Melbourne Response program, which was introduced 15 years ago.
Under the program, an independent commissioner is employed by the church to investigate claims of sexual abuse.
"(The archdiocese) does not believe that an external review is necessary or would benefit victims," Mr O'Farrell said.
Mr Foster said a royal commission would be the only way to bring the alleged secrets of the Catholic Church into the open.
"What we're after is very simple," Mr Foster said.
"We want justice, care and compassion for the past, current and new victims of clergy sexual abuse and that it never happens again."
A spokesman for Attorney-General Robert Clark, James Copsey, said Mr Clark would "carefully consider that material and other matters that have been raised prior to making any decision".
A spokesman for Mr Baillieu said he could not comment until a decision was made.
Any original material on these pages is copyright © BishopAccountability.org 2004. Reproduce freely with attribution.