Prime Minister Mark Rutte has been accused of giving victims of sexual abuse within the Roman Catholic church false hope that older cases might still result in prosecution of the perpetrators. Many happened too long ago for them to qualify for prosecution now under Dutch law.

Prime Minister Rutte said on television that he personally believed immunity from prosecution under the Dutch statute of limitations ought not to apply to such cases and that the matter would be looked at again, also in relation to European legislation.

When Justice and Security Minister Ivo Opstelten announced earlier this week that nothing could be done in cases barred by the statute of limitations, this led to disappointment among many victims encouraged by Mr Rutte’s earlier comment, Christian Democrat MP Madeleine van Toorenburg told Dutch public broadcaster NOS.

Lower House hearing
A number of victims of sexual abuse by Catholic clergy will be speaking today at a hearing of parliament's justice and security committee. Archbishop Wim Eijk will also attend. 

The hearing is being held to examine the findings of the Deetman inquiry into sexual abuse within the  church. Inquiry chairman Wim Deetman will also address the meeting. Victims of sexual abuse want all perpetrators to face prosecution, including those allegedly involved in cases that happened decades ago. A bill has been drawn up to amend the legislation so that cases involving serious sexual offences may still be brought to trial.

Deputy Health Minister Marlies Veldhuijzen van Zanten and Minister Opstelten are planning to set up a task force to monitor a recent plan of action aimed at tackling sexual and child abuse. The ministers have also promised to hold a further investigation into sexual abuse, domestic violence and forced prostitution.

(nc/tf)

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