BishopAccountability.org
	Deadline for Catholic Abuse Claims Friday The Associated Press, carried in KXLY March 9, 2006 http://www.kxly.com/news/index.php?sect_rank=1&story_id=918 SPOKANE -- Spokane Catholic diocese officials were waiting for tomorrow's deadline to get some idea how many people are seeking compensation for clergy sex abuse. People who alleged they were abused have until close of business tomorrow to submit "proof of claims" to the US Bankruptcy Court handling the Spokane Diocese bankruptcy reorganization. The diocese already has offered nearly $46 Million to 75 victims. An equal number could file claims and would negotiate settlements, or take the diocese to court, after Friday's deadline. Among those who have already filed is a woman who says she was sexually abused 40 years ago by Spokane Bishop William Skylstad, president of the US Conference of Catholic Bishops. The 70-year-old Spokane bishop denies the accusation, saying he has not violated a vow of celibacy he took 47 years ago. The diocese made public the allegation, but did not release the woman's name or other details. Greg Arpin, a lawyer who represents the diocese in bankruptcy court, says the filings will help the diocese "get its arms around" the number of people who say they were abused by priests. Skylstad has said he wants to be fair to those who were not covered by the settlement offer last month. The diocese is still looking for ways to pay the settlements, including selling and mortgaging churches and other church property.
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