Cardinal Pell loses appeal, considering special leave application to High Court

22 Aug 2019

By The Record

Cardinal George Pell has this week lost his appeal against abuse conviction. Photo: CNS.
Cardinal George Pell has this week lost his appeal against abuse conviction. Photo: CNS.

Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB has this week released the following statement, following the announcement of Cardinal George Pell’s unsuccessful appeal.

“Following Cardinal Pell’s unsuccessful appeal against his conviction on charges of historic sexual abuse of minors, reactions will be varied.

“Those who have been convinced of his guilt will believe that justice has been served. Those who have always accepted Cardinal Pell’s constant insistence on his innocence of all charges will be dismayed that his appeal has been rejected.

“Many people have commented on the conduct of the investigation, trial and conviction of Cardinal Pell. I will not do so. Rather, I would appeal to everyone to remain calm, measured and compassionate in our reactions and responses.

“I would also plead with everyone in our society to join in a common effort to eradicate the scourge of sexual abuse from our communities and our institutions. This is what our children and young people need from us at this time.”

Download the statement by Clicking Here