Some Roman Catholic Dioceses Fighting Lawsuits May File Bankruptcy - 16 Jul 2004
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...Some Roman Catholic dioceses fighting lawsuits for clergy abuse may be ready to join the Portland, Oregon Archdiocese in filing for bankruptcy protection. The head of the Diocese of Tucson, Arizona, says it may be the "best way to respond to all victims." Bishop Gerald Kicanas has been meeting with attorneys for much of the past month to consider filing for bankruptcy. A spokesman says the diocese is considering its best option. Others have already settled and say they have moved on, with or without the threat of bankruptcy. The diocese of Dallas in Texas and the archdiocese of Louisville in Kentucky both settled multi-million dollar claims. Other dioceses may be considering bankruptcy, but no figures are available because each of the 195 U.S. Roman Catholic dioceses are independent and must consider their individual station. [AP] |