Vicariate of France-Spain – The old school of Bétharram

In recent months, the Vicariate of France-Spain has been confronted with the revelation of several cases of sexual abuse and numerous acts of physical and psychological violence, committed by some of our elders and employees, mainly in the 70s-90s, within the old school of Bétharram.

To date, around a hundred complaints have been filed with the Public Prosecutor of Pau.

Shocked and dismayed by these testimonies, our Congregation expresses, in a communiqué, its support for the victims, for these children of yesterday, who still suffer as the adults of today. Our Congregation is resolved to accompany them on a path of truth and reparation.

For several years, our religious family has been committed to the protection of minors and people in vulnerable situations and has put in place Guidelines to this effect. In the light of the revelations of the past year, it is all the more aware of the efforts that must be made today so that her works are truly “safe places,” where the dignity of each person is fully protected and respected. (See the Congregation’s press release of September 6.)

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