Mistoqsijiet mill-ġurnal ‘Maltatoday’ dwar il-każ ta’ Dumink Camilleri – Djoċesi t’Għawdex

1. The Safeguarding Commission would like to state that the case has been reviewed by the Head of Safeguarding. As a result of this review, it emerged that Dominic Camilleri has been suspended from all pastoral duties throughout the process, which means that he has had no active role in the Church, including not being permitted to celebrate any sacraments. This decision was non-prejudicial to the final decision and was done to safeguard any minors or vulnerable adults who may have been at risk of harm.

The Vatican’s decision to defrock Dominic Camilleri was taken in two stages. The first decision was dated May 2013, however following a request by Camilleri’s legal representative in July 2013, Bishop Mario Grech was advised by the Apostolic Nuncio to suspend the implementation of this decision and to refer back to the Vatican. Following correspondence between the Vatican and the Gozo Curia, which took into account the submissions put forward by Camilleri’s legal representative, the Vatican’s decision was confirmed in February 2015. Bishop Mario Grech sent a letter in March 2015 to Camilleri informing him of this decision. Camilleri was also informed in writing through his legal representative in May 2015. 

2. As explained above, the process took into account Camilleri’s submissions. Camilleri was suspended throughout the whole process. Thus any possible or perceived delays had no impact on the safeguarding of minors or vulnerable adults, which is of paramount importance for the Church.

3. Bishop Mario Grech reiterates his commitment that every case of abuse is being dealt with by putting at the forefront the protection of minors and vulnerable adults, as has been done consistently in this and in all cases.