New Vatican department to investigate bishops who cover up sexual abuse

Pope Francis has approved a new Vatican department which will judge bishops accused of covering up or not preventing sexual abuse of children.

A statement from the Vatican overnight said the department would come under the auspices of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, "to judge bishops with regard to crimes of the abuse of office when connected to the abuse of minors".

Read NCR Article on the reform

Listen to 774 ABC Drive Melbourne interview with Francis Sullivan