Retired Queensland Bishop Brian Heenan Ashamed of Child Abuse in Catholic Church, Royal Commission Hears

By Michael Madigan
The Courier-Mail
April 20, 2015

http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/retired-queensland-bishop-brian-heenan-ashamed-of-child-abuse-in-catholic-church-royal-commission-hears/story-fnihsrf2-1227311765915

A RETIRED Queensland Bishop has expressed deep sorrow about child sexual abuse inside the Catholic Church, and spoken of his own “terrible sense of shame and disgrace”.

Bishop Brian Heenan, appearing at the Royal Commission into Child Sexual Abuse at Rockhampton, said listening to a week of evidence from victims had moved him deeply.

“I realised all over again how dreadful it must have been for them,” Bishop Heenan, appointed in 1991 and now retired, said.

“I just want to say, my heart goes out to you, and that has been reinforced this week because of what you have shared with us.”

The Royal Commission has heard evidence from victims of child sexual abuse in Rockhampton, including former residents of Neerkol Orphanage, west of the city.

Bishop Brian Heenan said his heart went out to the victims.

Former Neerkol residents alleged they were raped, horsewhipped and humiliated by Sisters of Mercy staff who would force bed wetters to drape soiled sheets over their heads.

Bishop Heenan said the victims who gave evidence represented many people, some of whom were deceased and who had never had the opportunity to tell their story.

“I feel a terrible sense of shame and disgrace over what happened to you at never Neerkol, or anywhere else,” Bishop Heenan said.

Bishop Heenan also expressed his gratitude to the Royal Commission which has heard evidence across Australia.

“I think the commission has given an opportunity to the survivors to be heard openly and honestly, without reservation,” he said.

“I hope it will result in whole new appreciation of the sacredness of children ... and the need for their protection,” he said.

“I see you as a commission which has begun to change the culture in which we live.”

The inquiry continues.