Whistleblower Says He "Makes No Apologies" for Sparking Abuse Inquiry

By Dan Cox
ABC News
July 5, 2013

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-07-05/whistleblower-says-he-27makes-no-apologies27-for-sparking-abu/4802698?section=nsw

A police whistleblower has told an inquiry into an alleged cover-up of clergy sexual abuse in the New South Wales Hunter Valley he "makes no apologies" for his pursuit of justice.

Senior policeman Peter Fox claims the Maitland-Newcastle Catholic Diocese covered-up abuse by Father Denis McAlinden and Father James Fletcher.

Documents tendered this week show church officials, including three former Bishops, knew about the abuse by both men.

Peter Fox has today told the Commission if he had the documents in 2003, when he was investigating the paedophiles, it would have sparked a "major investigation" requiring three or four detectives.

He said it would have meant some overseas flights or the assistance of Interpol, but the cost "wouldn't have been astronomical" and "shouldn't have been a consideration".

Representing the Diocese, Lachlan Gyles SC told Peter Fox he "ran roughshod over individuals in pursuit of his belief" of a cover-up by the church.

Peter Fox said he "makes no apologies and has no regrets".

The public hearings will continue on Tuesday.