Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care
On 25 June the Royal Commission into Abuse in Care presented its final report. Church leaders have publicly thanked the Inquiry for the work they have done in preparing this report.
The Catholic bishops and congregational leaders acknowledge the Church’s history and the ongoing trauma of those who have been harmed. Over the past 30 years, the Catholic Church in Aotearoa has made significant progress in responding to reports of abuse and safeguarding. Our focus on safeguarding and care is informed by the past and aims to ensure that people are safe in care today.
All are encouraged to engage with the work of the Royal Commission
www.abuseincare.org.nz
The Church’s response has been coordinated by Te Rōpū Tautoko
tautoko.catholic.org.nz
The Church takes all complaints of abuse seriously. Complaints of sexual abuse against church personnel in New Zealand are referred to the Church’s National Office for Professional Standards (NOPS. Increased public discussion, such as with the Inquiry, can be the catalyst for people to come forward. We encourage anyone who has been abused by a priest or religious to contact NOPS, for your story to be heard and your complaint to be investigated.
Alternately you may choose to go directly to the Police, and the Church will support anyone who requires assistance to do this.
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0800 114 622
Web: www.safeguarding.catholic.org.nz
Eastern Bays Catholic Commitment
Both Mother of Perpetual Help and St Ignatius parishes as part of Eastern Bays Catholic are committed to implementing diocesan policies to the full and any recommendations that the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care makes to the best of our ability.