Christian Brothers makes new sexual abuse payout proposals after pause bid

Payments will continue to be made to survivors of child sexual abuse affiliated with a Christian organization; Private schools are planned to pay the bill.

Previously, the Christian Brotherhood’s board of trustees had sought to halt payments to survivors of historic abuse, citing financial hardship.

But the organization has made a major U-turn, proposing a new payment plan to fund schools arming Edmund Rice Education Australia.

In the new proposals, trustees have asked the Supreme Court for permission to make Edmund Rice Education Australia liable for refunds and any future legal action.

This came after a moratorium was granted to the Christian Brotherhood and a halt to possible payments was made over claims that the organization had run out of money.

In a statement released Friday, trustees said they had signed a memorandum of understanding with EREA trees to “ensure an outcome for all creditors, including victims and survivors of abuse.”

“In summary, this means that not only will existing claimants with settlement or judgment be paid in full, but EREA will also assume liability and responsibility for all current and future legal proceedings as well as claims before the National Redress Scheme,” the trustees said.

“We are committed to supporting those experiencing abuse by supporting a revised regulation plan,” said Stephen Brown, chairman of EREA trustees.

“This decision will also support the long-term sustainability of the ministry of education, including the more than 44,000 students entrusted to the management of EREA.

“EREA is committed to supporting those experiencing abuse, which is why today we seek to reassure them that we will step in to address future funding shortfalls.”

While the regulation was welcomed by the Albanian Labor Government, social services minister Tanya Plibersek expressed the uncertainty caused by the previous announcement.

“The uncertainty of the last few weeks has been difficult for victims of abuse in institutions run by the Christian Brothers,” he said.

“They should never have been left wondering whether their demands would be met.

“No level of compensation can erase the profound harm experienced by survivors of child sexual abuse. But we know that reparation, including counseling, apology, and financial compensation, can play an important role in helping victims feel heard, believed, and supported.”