Tobin calls abuse policy 'effective'

The proposal is similar to the diocese's plan.
By D.A. WILKINSON
VINDICATOR RELIGION EDITOR
YOUNGSTOWN -- Bishop Thomas J. Tobin said a Catholic committee proposal "contains elements essential to an effective and serious response to the sad chapter of sexual abuse in the church."
The leader of the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown issued a statement after a committee released a proposed zero-tolerance policy Tuesday to be considered next week by all U.S. bishops.
Bishop Tobin said those elements include "creating a safe environment in the church for children and young people; healing and reconciling victims of abuse and their families; prompt reporting of allegations of abuse to civil authorities; and the disciplining of identified abusers."
The diocese adopted a plan in 1994 that covers those issues.
Discussion
The bishop noted the proposal "provides a very helpful framework for the continuing discussions of the bishops."
And Bishop Tobin indicated there will be more discussion.
"It should be emphasized that the draft is not the last word on this issue and that it will benefit from the candid discussion and evaluation of the bishops at our meeting next week."
Bishop Tobin has not responded to a request for information on the total number of cases in the diocese. However, the diocese announced last month it had learned of new allegations of sexual abuse by five priests. The most recent case was 19 years ago.
Those five priests either had retired or submitted their resignations.
The bishop in April announced that sexual abuse or other misconduct by priests would not be tolerated.
The diocese has said there are no current abuse cases.
"As we confront this terrible issue of sexual abuse, may God give us wisdom to know what is right and courage to do it," Bishop Tobin said.
Elsewhere
Other reaction to the proposal was mixed.
William Donohue, president of the Catholic League in New York, said the proposal is reasonable.
The proposal would eliminate much of the secrecy that has surrounded sex abuse claims, he said. The proposal calls for abusers who remain priests to accept public disclosure and would limit confidentiality agreements.
Catholics For a Free Choice said the proposal was "far too little and far too late" and called for bishops and other officials who reassigned known abusers to resign.
wilkinson@vindy.com