Quebec strips Abbé Pierre of National Order of Quebec after sex-assault allegations

MONTREAL — The Quebec government has stripped French priest Abbé Pierre of the National Order of Quebec over sexual abuse allegations.

Premier François Legault made the decision following a unanimous recommendation from the council that oversees the highest distinction awarded by the Quebec government.

Sexual assault allegations were first published about Henri Grouès, better known as Abbé Pierre, in a July 2024 report.

A total of 45 alleged victims have to date come forward with accusations of sexual violence, including several who were minors at the time of the alleged abuse.