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Accusations of Abuse in Institutions

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The Press
March 22, 2003

Victims accept deal in sex-abuse case
by Yvonne Martin

More than 20 men who say they were sexually abused as boys by religious brothers at a Catholic residential school have confirmed they will accept a compensation deal.

The St John of God Order which ran Marylands in Christchurch for boys with intellectual and learning disabilities has offered $4 million to 56 of a total 75 complainants. Payouts range from about $30,000 to $100,000. Twenty-three men of those offered money have formally accepted.

Fourteen brothers and a nightwatchman have been accused of abuse over several decades from the late 1950s. Seven of those brothers are still alive and under investigation by the police.

Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse Trust manager Ken Clearwater said at least three of the 37 men he supports have accepted offers. Others were still weighing up their decision, he said. Six of his men are in Paparua or Rolleston prisons.

One Christchurch complainant, Justin Richardson, who was at Marylands from 1976 to 1983, said he was still awaiting his offer. Some men were disgruntled about the wide variance in payouts, he said.

If Mr Richardson accepted, he would spend his money on a house, his two children and if any is left over an exotic holiday.

"I have always wanted to go on a lion safari in Africa," he said.

Another complainant, who did not want to be named, said he would use the money to reduce his mortgage and replace his car. He said his resentment towards his alleged abuser from the late 1950s and 1960s had subsided.

"I pray for him. I get angry with him, but the hate is gone."

Christchurch law firm Grant Cameron Associates, which said it represents 16 complainants as well as families, is assessing the offers. Lawyer Patrick McPherson said they will know their clients' responses next week.