Acting PM's Press Conference: Watching (The Appointment Process Of) The Detectives
Acting Prime Minister Winston Peters began Monday's post-cabinet press conference by extolling the virtues of the
government's families package, which began coming into effect this weekend.
Peters also made a statement on a planned review of the appointment of Deputy Commissioner of Police Wally Haumata,
focusing on whether all relevant information was made available to, and considered by, the State Services Commission in
the appointment, and whether the information was made available to the police. This follows Haumata's apology for
comments in 2004 dismissing rape allegations against police officers. Detailed terms of reference are expected by next
week. Peter took questions on topic including whether the Deputy Commissioner should stand down during the process and
on Haumata's political links to Peters' New Zealand First party.
Other questions covered cabinet's consideration (or lack of it) of Kiwibuild eligibility, the 'small variation' that has
seen the NZNO recommend a new offer for nurses from district health boards, confusion over reports on projected numbers
of prisoners and Corrections Minister Kelvin Davis, the possibility of government funding for region air routes, the
possibility of government funding for a Wellington film museum and convention centre, and why Peters doesn't seem to
mind being compared to Donald Trump if it comes from Nigel Farage.
Click a link to play audio (or right-click to download) in either
MP3 format or in OGG format.