The Pope's new ambassador to Australia says the Vatican is prepared to co-operate with Australia's child sex abuse inquiries, reports The Daily Telegraph.
In the Holy See's first public response to the creation of a federal royal commission, the new papal nuncio, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, offered qualified assistance.
"(We are) ready to respond to any legitimate request which is presented through proper diplomatic channels and respects accepted practice in accordance with the international agreements to which both the Holy See and Commonwealth of Australia are adherents," he told the Herald Sun.
The comments suggest a dramatic departure from attitudes to the scandal engulfing the church worldwide.
Archbishop Gallagher replaces Archbishop Giuseppe Lazzarotto as Australia's papal ambassador.
In response to questions, Archbishop Gallagher backed the need for the Victorian and federal abuse inquiries, acknowledging the "pain caused and wrongs committed".
"I think the Vatican shares the view of the Australian bishops that it is necessary to make efforts to grasp the truth so that necessary action can be taken to ensure with confidence that we are doing everything possible to protect the vulnerable and prevent further abuse," he said.
FULL STORY New Papal nuncio says Vatican ready to help Australian abuse inquiries (Daily Telegraph)