Church Sex Inquiry in Newcastle

By Joanne Mccarthy
Newcastle Herald
February 13, 2013

http://www.theherald.com.au/story/1298453/church-sex-inquiry-in-newcastle/?cs=303

AUSTRALIA'S first formal commission of inquiry into child sexual abuse will hold all hearings in Newcastle, it was announced today.

Commissioner Margaret Cunneen, heading the NSW Special Commission of Inquiry, today confirmed that the first hearing will be held in Newcastle for two weeks from May 6.

The commission will open with evidence about police handling of allegations relating to a Catholic church cover-up of crimes committed by pedophile priest Denis McAlinden.

A three-week hearing into the church’s handling of allegations against McAlinden, spanning four decades, will also be held in Newcastle from June 24.

Ms Cunneen today said that extensive investigations had already started and that a large number of documents had already been collected by summons.

Former Maitland-Newcastle priest and Adelaide Archbishop Philip Wilson, former Maitland-Newcastle Bishop Michael Malone, and general secretary of the Australian Bishops Conference Brian Lucas were all granted leave to be represented at the hearings, where they are expected to appear and give evidence.

Premier Barry O’Farrell announced the NSW Commission of Inquiry after revelations by Hunter-based detective chief inspector Peter Fox, which first appeared in the Newcastle Herald.

Ms Cunneen said the NSW inquiry was working with the federal Commission of Inquiry which was announced by Prime Minister Julia Gillard three days after state commission was ordered.