MEDIA RELEASE
BARNARDOS NEW ZEALAND

18 April 2001

Barnardos Welcomes Concept of an Agenda for Children

“ Barnardos sees the Government’s announcement regarding the development of an “Agenda for Children” as holding out the possibility of exciting developments for New Zealand children,” says Ian Calder Chief Executive of Barnardos. “All too often the needs and rights of New Zealand children seem to have taken second place to those of adults during the formulation of Government policies and in its service delivery.”

“To know that the Government is to give priority to addressing child poverty and the violence in children’s lives will be glad news indeed to those in the community who have fought to keep these issues before our law-makers, and who may have felt on occasion that their voice has gone unheard.

“For our part I am hopeful that the Children’s Agenda will provide, amongst other things, the opportunity to repeal section 59 of the Crimes Act 1961 which provides parents with a defence from charges of assault when they use “reasonable force” in the correction of their child. This part of the Crimes Act is clearly insistent with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. It is, therefore, heartening to note the Government’s intention that its policies and services affecting children should be consistent with UNCROC.

“Needless to say, Barnardos will be taking advantage of the Government’s invitation to respond to the discussion document currently in circulation.”

For further information please contact:
Julie McBurney
Communications Manager
Barnardos New Zealand

04 385 7560/025 248 0797

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