Non-cleric to lead Catholic office tackling abuse cases

Church here makes move for transparency, independence following scandals overseas

Archbishop William Goh (above) last September addressed the disquiet over the scandals overseas, during which he said there has been no "cover-up" in the Archdiocese of Singapore. Australian Cardinal George Pell (right), the No. 3 man in the Vatican,
Australian Cardinal George Pell (above), the No. 3 man in the Vatican, was recently found guilty of sexually abusing two choirboys. He is appealing. PHOTO: AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE
Archbishop William Goh (above) last September addressed the disquiet over the scandals overseas, during which he said there has been no "cover-up" in the Archdiocese of Singapore. Australian Cardinal George Pell (right), the No. 3 man in the Vatican,
Archbishop William Goh (above) last September addressed the disquiet over the scandals overseas, during which he said there has been no "cover-up" in the Archdiocese of PHOTO: AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE
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The Catholic Church in Singapore is putting in place additional safeguards in the light of revelations about sexual abuse of minors by Catholic priests in Australia and other countries.

Archbishop William Goh has appointed a non-cleric to head the Professional Standards Office (PSO), a body set up by the Archdiocese of Singapore to deal with any allegations of sexual abuse of children and young people by priests, employees or volunteers.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on March 11, 2019, with the headline Non-cleric to lead Catholic office tackling abuse cases. Subscribe