THE Archbishop of Wales, the Most Revd Andrew John, has issued an unqualified apology for his part in the failings at Bangor Cathedral, in the wake of two reports that recorded concerns about “weak financial controls” and “inappropriate behaviours” (News, 9 May).

In a statement issued on Monday, he said: “I wish to apologise for errors of judgement I have made that have caused anxiety and hurt. My apology to you all is heartfelt, unreserved, and unequivocal.” Referring to “shortcomings and poor organisational practice”, he said: “I deeply regret that they happened under my episcopate and I recognise I ought to have done more to ensure such failings did not occur. I also take full responsibility that I did not address these matters quickly enough. I recognise our witness to Jesus Christ and our mission to Wales has been damaged and I repent and offer no excuses nor justifications. I am committed to an ongoing process of reflection to ensure these unacceptable events do not happen again.”

The statement was issued after the first meeting of the Oversight Board appointed by Archbishop John to oversee implementation of the recommendations set out in both the Bangor Cathedral Visitation report and another report produced by the safeguarding organisation ThirtyOne:Eight.

On Tuesday, the situation at Bangor Cathedral was discussed at a meeting in Cardiff of the Representative Body, which is responsible for looking after the assets of the Church in Wales. A statement on the Church in Wales website on Wednesday said: “After extensive and detailed discussions, the meeting has been adjourned, and a statement will be issued in due course.”