An Italian priest has caused national outrage and embarrassed the Catholic Church by blaming paedophilia on children during a live TV interview.

Father Gino Flaim, 75, of San Giuseppe and Pio X parish, Trento, told the L’aria che tira programme that he “understands” paedophilia but not homosexuality. He was immediately suspended by red-faced Vatican officials.

“Unfortunately there are children who seek affection because they don’t get it at home and then if they find some priest he can even give in [to the temptation]. I understand this,” Flaim said during the interview.

When asked if he believed the children were in any way responsible, he said: “In many cases, yes.”

Flaim acknowledged that paedophilia is a sin, but that “like all sins, it has to be accepted”. He said that he believes that homosexuality, on the other hand, is an “illness”.

The priest’s comments come as the Catholic Church hosts its synod on the family, a gathering of church officials designed to coordinate the church’s teachings.

Italian speakers can watch the drama unfold below.