Bishop Won't Publish Report into Dean's Suspension

Channel Online
November 22, 2013

http://www.channelonline.tv/channelonline/DisplayArticle.asp?ID=508319

[with video]

The Bishop of Winchester has issued a statement confirming he is "unable" to release the report into the Dean of Jersey's suspension.

Tim Dakin said, following legal advice, he has agreed to comply with a request from an "interested party" not to publish Dame Heather Steel's report.

The report by the former High Court Judge has investigated whether any disciplinary action should be taken against any member of the clergy.

It comes after Jersey's Dean, Bob Key, was suspended in March for failing to properly investigate the treatment of a 26 year old disabled woman.

She alleged she was abused by a church warden in the island.

Rt Rev Dakin said, "I will not be taking disciplinary action against any member of the clergy in relation to the handling of the safeguarding complaint in question or the subsequent review process."

"The purpose of launching the inquiries in March was to understand fully the handling of the original complaint and to learn lessons for the future."

The Bishop has also sought help from the Archbishop of Canterbury over the matter, and has asked for a pastoral visit to be arranged.

Two other Bishops will come to the Channel Islands next month to gain a "fresh perspective on safeguarding."

Tim Dakin reinstated Jersey's Dean after he apologised for his actions in May.