I have just returned from Rome. I directly asked Pope Francis and Vatican officials to issue an apology to all Canadians for the abuse inflicted on men, women and children by Catholic clergy and religious, and for the Church's role in covering up such abuse. Prime Minister Trudeau and several members of his cabinet were aware of my trip to the Vatican. 

When I was 12 years old I suffered physical and sexual abuse at the hands of several De La Salle Brothers of the Christian Schools. It took over 30 years for the abusers to be brought to justice.

 In 1989 I asked the Pope for an apology and was greeted by silence from Rome. This year I was received by Vatican officials and my request for an apology is under consideration. 

What I fail understand is why Prime Minister Trudeau is unwilling to ask for an apology for all Canadians who suffered at the hands of Roman Catholic clergy and religious, and why he refuses to acknowledge the incredible cost we have all paid for the damage done.