Good timing? Seriously, I do not believe the vatican sent this out as a smokescreen. They have watched this develop for some time now and can't let it go on without issuing a very strong statement, and whatever the faults with the catholic church, this is not one of them imo.
I've read mostly criticism over the statement on the net except for here, even by professing catholics. I find that more disturbing than anything. Western society is about to be inalterably restructured.
I don't think their stand is going to make a significant difference anyway. At least enemies of the church can't bash the church for not speaking out like they have the WWII pope.