St Kevin’s Ormond and St Patrick’s Murrumbeena parish priest stood down
A CATHOLIC priest has been stood down from two parishes in Melbourne’s inner south amid claims of failures to comply with the child safety legislation and other related matters.
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A CATHOLIC priest has been stood down from two parishes in Melbourne’s inner south amid claims of failures to comply with the child safety legislation and other related matters.
St Kevin’s Ormond and St Patrick’s Murrumbeena parish priest Father Paul Newton, was asked to take a period of administrative leave on Wednesday, June 6, by Archbishop Denis Hart, after several parishioners raised concerns with the Commission for Children and Young People.
A letter seen by Leader, which was sent to parishioners by Mr Hart, said the concerns related to “alleged breaches of the Archdiocese’s Code of Conduct, child safety legislation and related matters which need to be investigated”.
“I appreciate such an announcement can be cause for anxiety and concern. In fairness to Father Newton, I would encourage you allow him to enter this period of investigation and for you to let it run its course and not presume judgment upon him,” Mr Hart said in the letter.
He said Bishop Peter Elliot would undertake the role of Administrator for both parishes until the investigation was complete.
The Child Safety scheme places obligations on school administrators ranging from putting policies and procedures in place up to mandatory reporting. It is not known what aspect of the Child Safety Scheme he is alleged to have contravened, however, it is not suggested that Father Newton is himself accused of being a danger to children.
A parent from St Patrick’s Primary School in Murrumbeena, who asked not to be named, told Leader parents had received the news on Sunday evening via the school’s app, even though the Archdiocese notified the parish on Wednesday.
The email seen by Leader, which sent by St Patrick’s and St Kevin’s school principals Jenny Hawkins and Helen Anania, said the matter was one for the Archdiocese and not for the school.
“While the investigation is underway, our schools will be working to make all support possible available, including counselling, for any students or family members who require it,” Ms Hawkins said in the email.
Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne Vicar General Monsignor Greg Bennet said an investigation was underway and there would be no other comment to ensure the process was not impeded.
“The Archdiocese is complying with all requirements of Commission for Children and Young People,” Mr Bennet said.
St Patrick’s Murrumbeena and St Kevin’s Ormond have been contacted for comment.
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