Taskforce to Investigate Priest Claims

7 News
July 18, 2012

au.news.yahoo.com/sa/latest/a/-/article/14262999/taskforce-to-investigate-priest-claims/

A police taskforce has been set up to investigate allegations of abuse of altar boys by the former NSW priest known as Father F.

The former religious leader, who lives in Armidale, allegedly abused several boys during the 1980s.

NSW Premier Barry O'Farrell on Wednesday said he had forwarded police a letter he received from independent MP Richard Torbay, whose electorate includes Armidale, after the allegations were aired by the ABC.

"Two days ago I had a letter from the local member for Armidale Richard Torbay raising understandable concerns," Mr O'Farrell told reporters.

"I forwarded that to the acting police commissioner Cath (Catherine) Burns, and yesterday I was in a position to advise Mr Torbay that police have established a taskforce that is investigating."

Mr O'Farrell welcomed the Catholic Church's decision to appoint former Federal Court judge Anthony Whitlam QC to conduct an independent inquiry into alleged abuse by Father F.

He urged the church to co-operate with the police investigation.

"I would urge the Catholic Church to do what appears to have been lacking in last investigations, which is to link with police," Mr O'Farrell said.

A NSW Police spokeswoman confirmed that a formal investigation had been launched.

"The NSW Police Force can confirm Strike Force Glenroe has been formed to review all relevant material.

"However, police are unable to comment further on this matter at this time."