Pope goes into damage control

POPE Francis last night offered guarded support for Cardinal George Pell, while expressing respect for the Australian judicial system that will decide his fate.

But Vatican insiders are already preparing to pension off Cardinal George Pell, regardless of the outcome of the case involving historic sex offences.

News Corp has been told it is highly unlikely that Cardinal Pell, who was promoted to the Vatican three years ago to reform its multi-billion euro real estate and financial portfolio, will return to Rome in his high-profile role.

Pope Francis, while supportive of Cardinal Pell, is seeking to fend off his harshest critics and minimise any reputational damage to the church.

In a statement read by his media officer, Greg Burke, Pope Francis said: “The Holy See expresses its respect for the Australian justice system, which will have to decide the merits of the questions raised.

“At the same time it is important to recall Cardinal Pell has openly and repeatedly condemned, as immoral and intolerable, the acts of abuse against minors.

“He has co-operated in the past with Australian authorities — for example, in his deposition before the royal commission; he has supported the pontifical commission for the protection of minors; and finally, as a diocesan bishop in Australia, has introduced systems and procedures both for the protection of minors and to provide assistance to victims of abuse,’’ the statement read.

Last night, Melbourne Archbishop Denis Hart, a friend of Cardinal Pell for more than 50 years, called for the presumption of innocence in relation to the charges.

“Cardinal Pell, like all Australians, is entitled to a fair trial,” he said.

Sydney Archbishop Anthony Fisher asked people to pray for the Catholic Church.

“The George Pell I know is a man of integrity in his dealings with others, a man of faith and high ideals, a thoroughly decent man,” he said.

“Where complaints of abuse are made, victims should be listened to with respect and compassion, and their complaints investigated and dealt with according to law.

“No one should be prejudged because of their high profile, religious convictions, or positions on social issues,” the archbishop said.

“We must now allow the impartial pursuit of justice,” he said.

Archbishop Fisher said the archdiocese would not pay legal bills arising from the charges, but would assist with the cardinal’s accommodation and support on his return.