June 17, 2005

Statement by Mary Grant of Long Beach CA (626 419 2930) SNAP Western Regional Director

We are grateful that bishops are partially funding this study of the causes of the widespread clergy sex abuse and cover up scandal.

We hope that a truly impartial research organization and methodology is selected and that our group and other outside organizations and experts are allowed to play a role in that selection.

Research is good but action is better. In addition to this study, we also hope that bishops establish a small reward fund to encourage church members and staff to report suspected abuse to law enforcement. Even a token $5,000 financial incentive could lead to successful criminal prosecutions that might spare dozens of children lifelong pain..

Irrespective of what the long term study may show, there are immediate, proven steps that bishops should take NOW to safeguard the vulnerable. We hope they will take tangible and effective preventative actions now, rather than passively waiting for the results of yet another study.