Catholic Diocese of Spokane, Washington

From Bishop Skylstad:
The statute of limitations

by Bishop William S. Skylstad

(From the March 18, 2004 edition of the Inland Register)

Earlier this month, I authorized diocesan attorneys to file motions with the Spokane County Superior Court requesting a legal ruling on the issue of whether the 1988 change in the statute of limitations, which revived claims of sexual abuse that had already been legally time barred, is consistent with the Constitution of the State of Washington. A motivating factor in bringing the motions is the need for clarification on this issue before there can be any meaningful discussions among the parties involved in the lawsuits attempting resolution of the claims of past abuse, many of which are decades old.

After careful thought and much prayer I have concluded this is the right decision for the right reasons.

First, answering this question expedites the process of bringing all the claims of abuse closer to a final resolution. My goal remains the same: to reach out to all victims, to urge all victims to come forward, and to attempt to resolve fairly and honestly credible claims of abuse, so a sense of healing can begin and a sense of some closure brought to all whose lives have been so tragically impacted.

Second, we have a responsibility to bring certainty to our ability to continue the many critical ministries we perform in eastern Washington, and as long as this cloud of undefined liability hangs over us, it is difficult at best to plan for the future in the interests of all.

Finally, as we respond to the challenges of this crisis, it is important that I take the necessary steps to move these matters toward resolution and this is a necessary step. Some will see it otherwise, but I believe this is the right step at this time, and I believe it is consistent with our on-going efforts to respond to the needs of those wounded by abuse, as well as the needs of the diocese.