Statement welcoming a police inquiry into the tragic suicide of Father Glen Walsh
The Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle has, continues to, and will always acknowledge both the terrible levels of historic child sexual abuse that occurred within the Diocese and the failures of some of its past leaders to protect children from that abuse.
As stated previously, the Diocese does not believe there is substantive gain to be had from further judicial inquiries. However, given the serious allegations raised by Ms Smith and others, the Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle would welcome a police investigation regarding Father Glen Walsh and the tragic circumstances of his suicide.
For healing and support:
The past is with us today. The Diocese has, is and will continue to acknowledge the shameful aspects of its history where children suffered abuse and some of its leaders failed to protect them from harm. The pain and damage caused is current each day for some survivors and their families. Healing and Support (Zimmerman Service) continues to provide a highly personalised pastoral response and can be contacted during office hours Monday to Friday 02 4923 0636 or via email healing.support@mn.catholic.org.au.
Safeguarding children and vulnerable adults:
If a diocesan employee, volunteer, parishioner, cleric or religious has any concerns for the safety, welfare or wellbeing of a child or vulnerable adult, please ring the Office of Safeguarding during office hours Monday to Friday 02 4979 1390, via email childprotection@mn.catholic.org.au or through an online report (which can be done anonymously) https://officeofsafeguarding.org.au/report-abuse/.
