Association Criticizes Intimidation in Abuse Investigation
António Grosso, spokesperson for the Coração Silenciado association, today condemned the methods of intimidation and interference by the Vita group in the investigation process for victims of sexual abuse by members of the Portuguese church.
Details of the Criticism
In a press conference held in front of the Assembly of the Republic, Grosso highlighted the opacity of the investigation process into the crimes, the intimidating and intrusive conditions during victim interviews, and held the State accountable for the lack of support for minors. He also criticized the statute of limitations for sexual abuse crimes, which he argued prevents justice for many victims.
Protest and International Support
The protest, which took place on the steps leading to the entrance of the Assembly of the Republic, gathered a few dozen people on a rainy afternoon in Lisbon. It began at 15:00 with the reading of several messages of support from similar international organizations. These groups are seeking compensation from the Church for the sexual abuses committed by its members.
Recent Developments in Compensation
The demonstration occurred just one day after the Portuguese Episcopal Conference (CEP) announced that it had validated 77 out of 84 financial compensation requests received so far. Additionally, the commission responsible for determining compensation amounts is set to begin operations later this month in September.
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