MENTAL HEALTH FOUNDATION OF NEW ZEALAND
MEDIA RELEASE
23 May 2008
For immediate release
Appointment of Mental Health Commissioners
The Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand was pleased to learn of the Minister of Health’s appointment of the new
Mental Health Commissioners. However it is surprised and disappointed that, in a departure from past practice, that
there is no Commissioner with service user experience.
The Foundation believes that the added value of having a Commissioner with lived experience has been clearly
demonstrated, contributing to the authenticity and legitimacy of the Commission.
“The inclusion of a service user at governance level is living proof of the Commission’s understanding and continued
commitment. Clearly the Mason Inquiry gave considerable thought to its recommendation in 1996 that one of the three
commissioners should be from the ‘lay public’ and preferably with consumer experience,” says Judi Clements, Chief
Executive of the Foundation.
“This was never a token gesture but a vital part of the governance arrangements to ensure that the Commission carries
out its functions, particularly ‘to act as an advocate for the interests of people with mental illness,” she says.
ENDS