Former Mildura Police Officer Says a Parliamentary Inquiry into Clergy Abuse Is Not Equipped to Deal with the Issue

ABC Central Victoria
April 19, 2012

http://www.abc.net.au/local/stories/2012/04/19/3480992.htm?site=centralvic

Church abuse linked to suicide (7pm TV News VIC)

Days after the state government announced an inquiry into clergy sexual abuse, former Mildura police officer Dennis Ryan says a parliamentary inquiry isn't equipped to investigate the issue.

The inquiry was announced after dozens of suicides were linked to abuse by members of the Catholic clergy.

"A royal commission without a doubt would be best of all but that would never ever be agreed upon because the depth of a royal commission would be such that it would tarnish many people."

His comments echo those of advocates and the opposition Leader Daniel Andrews, who says the committee does not have the legal knowledge or resources for such a complex investigation.

But Attorney-General Robert Clark says the form of the inquiry is appropriate.

Mr Ryan says he was forced out of the police force because he persisted in investigating complaints against Monsignor John Day in the 1970s.

"I could not stand the thought of children being raped... It had to be stopped."

He says his investigations were frustrated by the church and by senior members of the police force at the time, but believes it's likely there are hundreds of victims, at Mildura, and in Monsignor Day's later parishes at Horsham and Apollo Bay.

He says while the politicians chosen to conduct the committee may be genuine and honest, he doubts they have the experience necessary to investigate the issue.