Church ombuds hears many complaints

In September it was reported that the Catholic church’s new ombudsman, appointed in May, had received 45 formal complaints. Now that number is up to 75 including 30 sex abuse complaints and 16 for other kinds of abuse.

Marie-Christine Kirouack says “listening to people about their suffering is an important part of her job.” Is that her main job? Acting as a sort of counsellor, letting people unburden themselves? Acting, in short, as a mother confessor?

Can she, does she, ever direct them to lay charges?

Update: Radio-Canada has a more detailed report on the ombudsman’s experiences with her recalcitrant and secretive organization.