St. George's diocese, Newfoundland.

Cornerbrook -- The diocese of St. George, located in Western Newfoundland, found itself with a legal settlement of $13 million to pay out to 39 boys sexually abused by one priest in the diocese. (See C.I., Jan. 2006, p. 28.) Catholic Insight spoke recently with Bishop Douglas Crosby, OMI, who provided an update on the situation.

The diocese has made 3 payments thus far, for a total of just over $9 million.

The diocese liquidated most of its assets.

So far, generous contributions from individuals and organizations have allowed the diocese to buy back over 120 pieces of property. In many cases, the church or parish hall is the only public building in the town.

The diocese will be taking the insurance companies to court to "encourage" them to assist in the settlement to the abuse victims. The diocese filed a Statement of Claim in the Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador on June 7, 2006, seeking indemnity from six insurance companies for damages owing to victims of sexual abuse and defence costs and indemnity from any further damage awards (Atlantic Catholic, June 24, 2006).

There are about 14 months left in the process for which $4.1 million is still needed to cover payments in July 2007 and July 2008. Donations may be sent to Settlement Fund, 469 Curling Street, Corner Brook, NL, A2H 3K8. Make cheques out to Settlement Agreement Fund.