Retired Regina priest faces sex assault charges in Scotland

A long-time Regina priest is being extradited to Scotland to face historic physical and sexual assault charges stemming from his work at schools.

The Archdiocese of Regina has confirmed the charges against Father Robert MacKenzie, saying a surrender order was obtained and his extradition was authorized on March 22.

The crimes are alleged to have occurred at two day and boarding schools in Scotland between the 1950s and 1980s. A letter sent by the archdiocese said MacKenzie held a position at these two schools while he was a member of a religious order in Scotland.

The church said in the letter that the investigation had begun several years ago. Two years ago, the church in Regina found out about the criminal proceedings and moved MacKenzie from the rectory where he had retired to a retirement home — the church said this was in accordance with policy.

A year later, more information came out about the allegations and MacKenzie’s ability to minister as a priest was suspended.

The archdiocese said, as of Monday, no allegations have been made against MacKenzie from any of the communities he served in Regina.

The church went on in the letter to say that it is committed to promoting the safety and well-being of everyone in its communities, and offered whatever support is most helpful to any victims.