Statement from Bishop Bill Wright on Archbishop Philip Wilson
Today 17 March 2015, the NSW Police have issued the Archbishop of Adelaide, Philip Wilson with a future court attendance notice to face a single charge of concealing a serious indictable offence.
The Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle continues to support NSW Police and in particular the Hunter Area Command’s Strike Force Lantle in its efforts to address the historical legacy of child sexual abuse in our region. The cooperation of the Diocese with Police investigations was the subject of favourable evidence before the Cunneen Special Commission of Inquiry.
As a Diocese, we have established reporting policies that require any member of the Diocese to report allegations of criminal conduct against children (available online here). As a Diocese we continue to show our commitment to protecting children each day.
We recognise that the history of child sexual abuse in the Diocese is distressing. Zimmerman Services has a dedicated team of experienced professionals committed to providing healing and support to those who have experienced harm. Zimmerman Services may be contacted on (02) 4979 1390, Monday – Friday from 9am – 5pm.
- Bishop Bill Wright, Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle
