The Holy Cross Congregation says it needs more time to go thru applications submitted to an $18-million fund set up for sexual abuse victims.

Its lawyers asked Quebec Superior court for six more months today.

An out of court settlement was reached in late 2011, two years after a class action lawsuit was launched.

More than 220 people have come forward seeking compensation.

It's reported there was sexual abuse during a 51-year period beginning in 1950 at Montreal's Collège Notre-Dame and other schools.

Arrest warrants were issued recently for two elderly priests, both former teachers.

The case returns to court in March.

photo: artbabych.com