A POLICE taskforce has been set up to investigate allegations of abuse of altar boys by the former Moree priest known as "Father F".
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The former Catholic Church priest, who lives in Armidale, allegedly abused several boys during the 1980s.
NSW Premier Barry O’Farrell yesterday said he had forwarded police a letter he received from independent member for Northern Tablelands, Richard Torbay, whose electorate includes Armidale, after the allegations were aired by the ABC a number of weeks ago.“Two days ago I had a letter from Mr Torbay raising understandable concerns,” Mr O’Farrell said.
“I forwarded that to the acting police commissioner Cath (Catherine) Burns, and yesterday I was in a position to advise Mr Torbay that police have established a taskforce that is investigating.”
On Tuesday it was also announced former Federal Court judge Antony Whitlam QC, the son of Gough and the late Margaret Whitlam, would head an independent inquiry into the Catholic Church’s handling of the allegations against “Father F”.
Mr Torbay told The Leader while Mr Whitlam’s investigation would be independent, it was instigated by the Church.
“I certainly welcome the Church undertaking that process. I don’t think there’s any objection to that,” Mr Torbay said.
“What I’m saying is that, quite apart from the Church overseeing a process like that, there has to be an independent process led by the police ... on behalf of the public ... which is why I sent my letter (to Mr O’Farrell). “The intervention I’ve asked for from the Premier is for a separate police investigation, which, in my view, is important to keep the trust of the community in this matter, given its history.
“I’ve already had a response from the Premier and from the acting commissioner of police, and they’re detailed responses. I’m confident they are taking these matters seriously.”
Mr O’Farrell also welcomed the Catholic Church’s decision to appoint Mr Whitlam to conduct the inquiry.
He urged the Church to co-operate with the police investigation.
“I would urge the Catholic Church to do what appears to have been lacking in (other) investigations, which is to link with police,” Mr O’Farrell said.
A NSW Police spokeswoman confirmed a formal investigation had been launched.
“The NSW Police Force can confirm Strike Force Glenroe has been formed to review all relevant material,” the spokeswoman said.
“However, police are unable to comment further on this matter at this time.”
