George Pell Offers to Appear at Child Sex Abuse Inquiry

The Australian
May 26, 2015

http://www.theaustralian.com.au/national-affairs/in-depth/george-pell-offers-to-appear-at-child-sex-abuse-inquiry/story-fngburq5-1227370863831

Cardinal George Pell in an early appearance via video link from the Vatican in the commission into child abuse. Source: Supplied

Cardinal Pell has once again restated his willingness to give evidence to the Royal Commission in a letter written to the Chair of the Commission, Hon. Peter McClellem AM, last night.

“Without wanting to pre-empt the Royal Commission in any way — you can’t just invite yourself to give evidence — I want to make it absolutely clear that I am willing to give evidence should the Commission request this, be it by statement, appearance by video link, or by attending personally.”

Cardinal Pell also said it was important to restate his strong personal commitment to full co-operation with the Royal Commission, in light of the Ballarat hearings and speculation about his own willingness to give evidence.

“Like everyone else, I am horrified by the accounts that survivors have given in their evidence during the Ballarat hearings, and at the enormous impact the abuse has had on them, their families and the community.

“I am also deeply saddened by the way Church authorities have failed in responding to these crimes.

“So far I have not been asked to give evidence in any form, but as I have said repeatedly, I am deeply committed to assisting the Royal Commission and to doing anything I can to help survivors.

“This includes giving evidence in person, if asked to do so.”