Italian priest understands how pedophiles are tempted by children who 'seek affection'

An Italian priest has been banned from preaching after he attempted to justify pedophilia within the Church by blaming children who "seek affection".

Don Gino Flaim, 75, of Trento in northern Italy's Trentino Alto Adige region made the comments in an interview that was broadcast on La7 on Tuesday.

In the TV interview a journalist asks Don Gino if the thinks homosexuality is a problem in the Church.

"I don't know. I, pedophilia I can understand. Homosexuality, I don't know," the priests says.

"In what sense can you understand it? That it exists?" the interviewer asks.

"Because I've taught a lot at schools. I know children and unfortunately there are children who seek affection because they don't have it at home. And maybe they find a priest who can surrender [to temptation]. And this I can understand," Don Gino says.

The Archdiocese of Trento immediately distanced itself from the 75-year-old's comments, saying his opinions were contrary "to the sentiments of the entire church community" on child sex abuse.

The priest's comments also jar with public remarks made by Pope Francis who met with US victims of sexual abuse within the Church last month.

"I pledge to you that we will follow the path of truth wherever it may lead. Clergy and bishops will be held accountable when they abuse or fail to protect children." he said.