THE difference between compensation and hush money is one which many in the community have difficulty understanding.
It is a fundamental reason for the crisis the Australian Catholic Church has found itself in as a result of abuse victims’ complaints which have emerged in the past couple of weeks.
There is clearly a need to take a look at the protocols under which compensation is granted, and where they are not being followed or where there is any ambiguity, for victims to be assured they are not being gagged.
The programs in Australia which deal with clerical sexual abuse offer a way for victims to have their complaints heard. It is a pity that due to a misunderstanding the good work of these programs has been tainted.
