Portuguese Socialist leader to make statement "as witness" in paedophilia case

RDP Antena 1 radio, Lisbon

[Presenter] The investigation and penal action department of the Public Prosecutor's Office wants to hear Eduardo Ferro Rodrigues [opposition Socialist Party leader] in connection with the investigation into alleged paedophile activities at state-supported children's home Casa Pia. Parliament has been sent a note to enable Ferro Rodrigues to make a statement. He is now waiting for his immunity to be lifted as an MP and as a member of the Council of State [consultative body to the president] -as the president's permission is not enough.

[Rodrigues] The problem is that permission has to come not only from the president of the republic but also from the Council of State. I have contacted the president's office to ask for this process to obtain the Council of State's permission to be speeded up so I can make my statement as a witness in this process as soon as possible.

[Presenter] Ferro Rodrigues wants to be heard as a witness because his name has been involved in this case.

[Rodrigues] I want to know, either now or later in line with sub judice rules, who is defaming me so that in due course I can start proceedings against them...