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New Zealand’s Redress System Faces Scrutiny amid Political Clash
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A New zealand parliamentary hearing regarding the redress system for survivors of abuse in state care became a battleground between National Minister erica Stanford and Labour MPs on Wednesday. The core of the dispute centered on the structure of the redress system and whether an autonomous agency should manage it.
Stanford Defends Current Redress System
Erica Stanford, the minister overseeing the government’s response to the Royal Commission’s recommendations, faced intense questioning about the absence of an independent agency to handle redress claims. Labour MP Jan Tinetti argued that survivors desired an independent entity to avoid direct engagement with the state, which was the abuser. Tinetti stated that survivors feel the “Crown is abusing them as their voice has been taken away.”
Stanford defended the current system, stating that “many people going through the system are very happy with the service they’re getting, of course there are some people who are not.” She added that advice suggested a new agency “may not be any better than we have now,” and she was unwilling to incur the cost and complexity for a potentially similar outcome.
Did You Know? New Zealand’s Ministry of Social development currently manages the majority of state care abuse redress claims.
Political Sparring Over Redress Agency
Stanford criticized the previous Labour government, under which Tinetti served as education minister, for not acting on the 2021 redress report that called for an independent agency. Willow-jean Prime, another Labour MP, countered that a working group had been established to design such an agency. Tinetti added that Chris Hipkins had offered to collaborate with the current government on the issue.
The hearing devolved into a series of heated exchanges, with accusations of being “disingenuous” and “appalling” traded between the ministers and mps.National and new Zealand First members of the committee remained silent during the verbal sparring.
Consideration of Limiting Redress for Gang Members
Green Party co-leader Marama Davidson questioned Stanford about seeking advice on limiting redress for gang members. Stanford clarified that while she sought a range of advice, the government ultimately decided to treat gang members the same as other survivors, while creating a separate pathway for serious offenders.
Stanford emphasized the importance of considering all perspectives to be a responsible lawmaker. she also noted that she personally invited gang members to the apology in Parliament, demonstrating her beliefs on the matter.
Pro Tip: Government agencies often seek a wide range of advice to ensure policy decisions are well-informed and legally sound.
Future of the Redress System
While an independent agency is not currently planned, Stanford indicated it remains a possibility in the future. She expressed concern about the effectiveness of large, complex independent agencies, citing the example of Te Pukenga, which the current government is dismantling.
| Issue | Erica Stanford (national) | Jan Tinetti (Labour) |
|---|---|---|
| Independent Agency | Not a priority; current system works for many. | Essential for survivor trust and fairness. |
| Previous Government’s Action | Criticized for inaction on 2021 report. | working group established; apology issued. |
| Gang Member Redress | Sought advice but ultimately treated them equally. | Questioned the need to even consider limiting redress. |
What are the potential benefits of an independent agency managing redress claims?
How can the government ensure all survivors of state care abuse receive fair and timely redress?
Understanding the State Care Abuse Redress System
The redress system in New Zealand aims to provide compensation and support to individuals who experienced abuse while in state care. This includes children and vulnerable adults who were placed in foster homes, residential facilities, and other institutions under the care of the government. The Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care is investigating ancient abuse and making recommendations for improving the system. The inquiry is expected to deliver its final report in 2025, further shaping the future of redress for survivors [1].
The process typically involves survivors making a claim, which is then assessed by the relevant government agency. Redress can include financial compensation, counseling services, and apologies from the state. However, many survivors have expressed dissatisfaction with the current system, citing a lack of independence, clarity, and timely resolution of their claims.
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