Most Rev Brian Heenan
Catholic Bishop of Rockhampton

Media Release
9/10/03

Bishop Renews Apology and Commitment of Support to McArdle Victims

Following the sentencing yesterday of Michael McArdle, a former priest of the Diocese of Rockhampton, Bishop Brian Heenan has renewed his apology and offer of support to victims.

Speaking on Behalf of the Diocese of Rockhampton, and on his own behalf, Bishop Heenan offered a profound apology for the injury that had been done to innocent lives.

“I deeply regret that a former priest of our Diocese betrayed the trust placed in him with such tragic consequences and I apologise unreservedly to anyone who has been harmed.    

“I have come to appreciate more and more what a devastating effect sexual abuse has on victims and their families, although only those victimised could really know the pain,” he said.

Bishop Heenan also renewed his commitment to supporting victims and their families in whatever way was appropriate.

“Our desire to reach out and support the victims and their families is sincere,” he said.

“I will offer whatever support I can. The needs of the victims are our primary concern. I cannot change the past, but a terrible tragedy has occurred here and we must now do what we can to support these people in their lives.”

Bishop Heenan also renewed his call for any victim of abuse at the hands of church personnel in the Diocese to contact him so that support might be offered through the Church’s “Towards Healing” process, through meeting with him or with Diocesan sexual abuse response co-ordinator, Mrs Margaret Tucker.

“Our Diocese, and indeed the whole church, has an obligation to not only help bring about healing for victims, but also to prevent abuse in all its forms into the future.

“These tasks are extremely difficult, but I would like to renew the commitment of the Diocese of Rockhampton to a better and safer future for all and assure our community that appropriate procedures are in place to deal with allegations of abuse of any kind.” he said.

Ends…

For further information please contact Gerard Delaney on 49313603 or 0413274176.

- received by CathNews 9/10/03