Reference is made to Louise Vella’s article on allegations of abuses committed by members of the clergy (TMIS, 19 March).

Archbishop Mgr Joseph Mercieca fully rejects all the gratuitous insinuations levelled against him in the article, like for example that he might be more concerned about safe-guarding the reputation of the local Church, rather than protecting his flock’s most vulnerable members.

It should also be made clear that the Response Team’s deliberations are in no way intended to substitute the State’s role and responsibilities when investigating, examining and judging allegations of abuse. Moreover, whoever wants to go to the police with his/her allegations and evidence is totally free to do so.

As regards Ms Vella’s opinion that it is time the bishops implore the community’s forgiveness, she may wish to refer to the bishops’ statement on the subject issued on 8 October 2003 and the Archbishop’s message on the occasion of the Feast of Christ the King in 2003. Both are available on our website: www.maltachurch.org.mt

Charles Buttigieg

PRO

Archbishop’s Curia