Duty To Report In Inquiry Spotlight

July 18, 2008 — The law about reporting child sex abuse allegations to the Children's Aid Society was front and centre at the Cornwall Public Inquiry today. Former Alexandria-Cornwall Diocese lawyer Jacques Leduc says he never talked about the duty to report with the bishop. Current Diocese lawyer David Sherriff-Scott asked Leduc about reporting obligations in relation to the David Silmser investigation. (Hear audio clip below) Silmser is the alleged victim who accepted a 32 thousand dollar settlement from the church in 1993 after making allegations against a city priest. Anyone suspecting child abuse has a legal obligation to tell the Children's Aid Society what they know. Before hearings wrapped up for the day, Leduc's lawyer Marie Henien took the opportunity to ask Leduc if he was involved in a cover-up. He said "never". Hearings continue Monday at 9:30 with more church testimony.

 [Transcript of audio clip:  

Sheriff-Scott: Well at the time of the events Mr. Silmser may have been a minor and therefore the CAS must be dealt with? 

Leduc: Uhm,  I recall that there were conversations about that subject matter? Yes. 

Sheriff-Scott:  You do? 

Leduc: Yes. 

Sheriff_Scott:  Did you give advice to the bishop to report this matter? 

Leduc: No. ]