In July 2014, following the release of the NSW Special Commission of Inquiry report Bishop Bill Wright established an Independent advisory panel to provide advice in relation to the report, and more specifically to address adverse comments the report made against Mgr Allan Hart and Fr Bill Burston.
Including members drawn from both within and outside the diocese, the panel was established to consist of predominantly laity, with a gender balance and inclusive of a number of non-Catholics. As communicated in September 2014, following the announcement of the panel, one member deemed it appropriate to resign their position. This position was filled by a new panel member who also elected to keep their identity confidential.
The Independent advisory panel’s final report was presented to Bishop Bill on Tuesday 16th December 2014. After due consideration of this report and following ongoing liaison with legal representatives for both Mons Hart and Fr Burston, Bishop Bill has approved the report for publication.
Statement from Bishop Bill Wright on the Diocese’s response to the Special Commission of Inquiry Report, the Independent advisory panel and Fr William Burston and Msgr Allan Hart
Download a written statement from from Bishop Bill Wright on the Diocese’s response to the Special Commission of Inquiry Report, the Independent advisory panel and Fr William Burston and Msgr Allan Hart.
Independent advisory panel reports
- Formal advice – Fr William Burston
- Formal advice – Mons Allan Hart
Supporting Information
- Canonical advice – Prof Ian Waters
- Fr William Burston – response to panel advice
