A Second Catholic Priest Will Come under the Scrutiny of a Nsw Inquiry into Sex Abuse Allegations in the Hunter Region.

9 News
January 25, 2013

http://news.ninemsn.com.au/national/2013/01/25/18/01/nsw-abuse-inquiry-widens-net

Premier Barry O'Farrell announced on November 9 a special commission of inquiry into matters relating to a police investigation of sex abuse allegations in the diocese of Maitland-Newcastle.

The inquiry, headed by Margaret Cunneen SC, came after allegations by Detective Chief Inspector Peter Fox that the church had hindered police.

Mr O'Farrell said the inquiry would look at whether Insp Fox was asked to stop investigating Father Denis McAlinden, and whether the church hindered or obstructed the investigation.

On Friday the commission issued a statement saying the terms of reference had now been expanded to inquire into matters relating to alleged child sexual abuse by Father James Fletcher.

Ms Cunneen urged anyone with information to come forward.

"The inquiry will make it possible for individuals to provide evidence in a private hearing, if they wish," she said.

"In appropriate circumstances, confidentiality will be maintained through the use of non-publication orders."

Public hearings would also be held, she said.

The commission's amended terms of reference include provisions to share information with the Royal Commission into Child Sexual Abuse announced by Prime Minister Julia Gillard last year.

A mention for the inquiry will take place on February 13.

The commissioner is due to report by September 30.