Nova Scotia Government, Police Probe Complaint against Priest at Rehab Centre

Winnipeg Free Press
February 16, 2012

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/arts-and-life/life/faith/nova-scotia-priest-steps-down-from-rehabilitation-centre-job-after-complaint-139459403.html

HALIFAX - Police and the Nova Scotia government are looking into a complaint against a priest who headed up a rehabilitation centre for addicts in Cape Breton.

Officials with Talbot House said Thursday that Rev. Paul Abbass has taken a leave of absence from his position as executive director of the facility, but offered no details on the nature of the complaint.

The board of directors said in a statement it is investigating the complaint, which it became aware of through the province's Department of Community Services on Feb. 2.

"It is an unfortunate and challenging situation for all involved," John Gainer, Talbot House board chairman, said in the statement.

"The health and welfare of the residents is a primary concern for the board."

In an interview, Gainer would not reveal any details about the nature of the complaint involving Abbass, who had served as executive director for about 15 years.

He said Abbass was responsible for some counselling, the finances and overseeing the day-to-day operations at Talbot House, which treats men in their 20s and 30s who have a history of multiple addictions.

Abbass did not return messages Thursday seeking comment.

Abbass has also given up his duties as the spokesman for the Diocese of Antigonish, which was led by Bishop Raymond Lahey until he stepped down after being charged with importing child pornography.

Lahey pleaded guilty and was sentenced last month to 15 months in prison, but was released on probation after getting credit for time served.

Community Services spokeswoman Kristen Tynes said the department is doing an organizational review that will look at everything from financial oversight practices, programs and board management.

"The goal is to see if the organization is functioning properly and providing quality service," she said.

The province provided Talbot House $420,000 for the 2010-11 fiscal year.

Cape Breton police spokeswoman Desiree Vassallo said someone from Talbot House raised concerns with them this week about one of their employees. She said officers are looking into the matter to see if there are grounds for a criminal investigation.

The diocese said in a statement it would co-operate with the investigations.