MALTA
Malta Independent
Gozo Bishop Mario Grech personally called in the police over allegations that a priest had abused a number of girls in the past weeks and months, according to sources close to the Gozo diocese. It is understood that, at least one of the victims spoke to Mgr. Grech, who immediately asked police investigators to handle the matter. Police Inspector Sandro Camilleri yesterday confirmed that the Gozo Bishop collaborated with them.
The Gozo Bishop said in a statement yesterday that he had followed protocol indicated by canon and civil law and will act in the same way if other similar cases emerge.
In the press communique, Mgr. Grech said “any abuse case is a deep wound for the Maltese Church and society.
The Gozo Bishop said he is staying close to the victims and their families but said he understood he had responsibilities towards all priests, even those who commit mistakes, and towards God’s people, in particular minors.
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