Matter regarding Bishop Christopher Saunders
A statement from Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB Archbishop of Perth and President, Australian Catholic Bishops Conference:
“Allegations against the former Bishop of Broome, Christopher Saunders are very serious and deeply distressing, especially for those making those allegations.
“It is right and proper, and indeed necessary, that all such allegations be thoroughly investigated.
“The Church will continue to cooperate fully with the police and take every necessary step to avoid any actions which may compromise the integrity and autonomy of the police investigation.”
Contact:
Australian Catholic Bishops Conference Media and Communications Director, Paul Osborne
Ph: 0407 519 473 Email: media@catholic.org.au
ACBC Media Release (pdf)
CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF BROOME
MEDIA OFFICE
Date: Thursday, 22 February 2024.
Subject: Statement Re: Former Bishop Christopher Saunders
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Statement from Most Rev Michael Morrissey, Apostolic Administrator, Catholic Diocese of Broome
“Allegations against the former Bishop of Broome, Christopher Saunders are serious and deeply distressing. All such allegations must be thoroughly investigated. Of greatest importance is the support and care of those who bring such allegations to light.
The protection of children and vulnerable adults is the Church’s highest priority. I reaffirm my personal commitment, and the commitment of the Diocese of Broome, to providing support and assistance to survivors of abuse and repairing the wrongs of the past.
The Catholic Diocese of Broome urges any person with evidence of criminal conduct to report the matter to their local Police. The Western Australian Professional Standards Office (WAPSO) can also assist any person needing support to report a concern about abuse.
Telephone: (08) 9221 7762 or 1800 072 390 Email: director.wapso@perthcatholic.org.au
The Diocese of Broome has, and will continue, to cooperate fully with the WA Police. The Diocese will not take any action which may compromise the integrity and autonomy of the WA Police investigation. Accordingly, as this matter is now before the Court, we will not make any further comment at this time”. End Statement
Media enquiries should be directed to:
Brett A Mendez, Media Liaison, Catholic Diocese of Broome
Email: mendez@mencorp.com.au
Mobile: 61+ 412 903 205
On behalf of The Most Rev M. H. Morrissey,
Apostolic Administrator to the Diocese of Broome
