Vatican investigating renovations of Cardinal Bertone's apartment

March 31, 2016

The Vatican has confirmed that an investigation is underway regarding the financing of renovations for the apartment now inhabited by Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, the former Secretary of State.

Cardinal Bertone himself is not a target of the investigation, according to Greg Burke, the deputy director of the Vatican press office. The cardinal has said that he was unaware of the fact that funds froms the Bambino Gesu Hospital were used to pay for the extensive renovations of his home; he has made a donation to the hospital foundation to compensate for the costs.

Two former directors of the hospital foundation are the focus of the inquiry. One former director reportedly said that paying for the cardinal's apartment was justified because fundraising events could be held there, and the presense of Cardinal Bertone was a key to successful fundraising. 

 

---

For all current news, visit our News home page.

---

 
Further information:

• Vatican investigates claim hospital funds used to refurbish cardinal's flat (Reuters)
• Vatican confirms investigation into financing of Cardinal Bertone's apartment (National Catholic Reporter)