I'm confused -- isn't this "new plan" simply Boston/Cardinal Law redux, prior to the Globe's investigation and revelations:  just pay off the families and require a confidentiality agreement which precludes disclosing and/or further criminal reporting?  The only difference appears to be the alacrity with which claims are responded to.  Did Dolan just turn back the clock to 2002 and receiving accolades for doing so?  

Where are criminal investigation and possible prosecution in the equation?  Where are transparency and accountability for victims and offenders?  

If this analysis is correct and these are truly objective facts of how past, present and possibly future cases will be handled, where is Pope Francis' much-touted department relative to this nightmare?  I find this an alarming development, not one that represents any kind of viable solution for victims, their families, and the whole dreadful mess.