The Royal Commission has released its final report,Whanaketia.
This is a profound and important moment for the victims and survivors of abuse in Aotearoa New Zealand, and it is very much their day as the work of the Royal Commission has come to a conclusion.
The Marist Brothers in Aotearoa New Zealand pay tribute to the courage and bravery of those who came forward to tell their stories and share their experiences. Their contribution is respected and valued. In particular it ensured that the Royal Commission was able to purposefully investigate so much of our tragic history.
The contribution of those who came forward will now help our nation to significantly improve the safety and protection of children and other vulnerable people across Aotearoa New Zealand.
It is a tragic but inescapable part of our own history that, at times, children have been failed in Marist Brothers’ schools in Aotearoa New Zealand.
For that, and any harm caused, we are deeply sorry and express our unreserved apology.
We deeply respect the work of the Royal Commission and we will be giving the Final Report the due and appropriate consideration it deserves alongside the Catholic Church in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Only after very careful review, will we be responding to its findings and recommendations, including any matters which may invite us to confer as appropriate, and/or to share more widely as appropriate.
Pic credit: publicdomainpictures.net
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