Child Sexual Abuse Inquiry Resumes in Newcastle

ABC News
June 24, 2013

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-06-24/child-sexual-abuse-inquiry-resumes-in-newcastle/4774756


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A New South Wales inquiry into child sexual abuse by Hunter Valley Catholic priests resumes in Newcastle this morning.

The first part of the inquiry began last month, looking into claims by policeman Peter Fox that he was told by senior colleagues to stop investigating two Catholic priests.

The Special Commission will this week hear from several senior police officers, as well as local Fairfax journalist Joanne McCarthy.

She has been described by Detective Chief Inspector Fox as his "informant".

The second part of the inquiry is expected to start next week, and will look at how the church handled the complaints and allegations that church officials did not co-operate with police.

Maitland-Newcastle Bishop Bill Wright and former Bishop Michael Malone are scheduled to give evidence.

Adelaide's Archbishop Philip Wilson will give his evidence during an 'in camera' hearing' with the details to remain confidential.

Abuse victim, Peter Gogarty, says he is bitterly disappointed.

"There are a great many people who have an interest in what he's got to say and again, unfortunately, people are going to be left very disappointed," he said.

Peter Gogarty was abused by Father James Fletcher, one of the priests at the centre of the Special Commission.

He has been told he will give his evidence in an in camera hearing, rather than in public hearings which are taking place over the next four weeks.

Fletcher died before he was prosecuted for abusing Mr Gogarty and Mr Gogarty says he is angry he still does not get his day in court.

"I have been very vocal about this issue publicly for several years and I very, very much wanted the opportunity to be able to tell my story in public," he said.

"To do that in a courtroom, and then for anybody who thought they had an interest to scrutinise my story.

"I was desperately desirous to do that in a public courtroom."