This is a transcript of AM broadcast at 0800 AEST on local radio. The controversial and ultra-conservative Archbishop of Melbourne, Dr George Pell, has been named the new Archbishop of Sydney. Rebecca Barrett report. To his opponents, George Pell is known as Pell Pot behind his back, imposing an authoritarian, autocratic rule. The man he ll replace in Sydney, Cardinal Edward Clancy, concedes Dr Pell is a controversial figure but believes he ll be well received.
Most controversial people create an enemy or two along the way.
But, I think that any people who don t feel well disposed to Archbishop Pell, are people who know him only by his media image. That image portrays George Pell as deeply conservative. He once declared homosexuality a greater health hazard than smoking. Referring to the risk of Aids. He s also opposed to safe injecting centres.