All Human Rights Commission Appointments Must Be Reviewed, ACT Says
Friday, August 24 2001
Richard Prebble Press Releases -- Justice, Law & Order
The ACT Party welcomes the resignation of Human Rights Commissioner Ella Henry, and the government's acceptance of her
resignation.
"However, the issue raises some serious questions," ACT leader Richard Prebble said.
"We understand the Attorney-General and the government knew about the matter for several days before Holmes broke the
story last night. Why did the government wait until it became public before taking action?
"A Human Rights Commissioner who thinks it's appropriate to accuse police of racism for issuing a traffic notice is
clearly not suitable for the job.
"There's also another disturbing issue raised by this incident. How was Ella Henry thought to be suitable to be a Human
Rights Commissioner in the first place? Labour's spin doctors are blaming the Alliance.
"Since when has a judicial position such as Human Rights Commissioner been a jobs-for-the-girls political appointment?
"Ms Henry's unsuitability raises questions about the suitability and credibility of all Human Rights Commissioners?
"ACT believes the Justice and Electoral Select Committee should review all Human Rights Commission appointments," Mr
Prebble said.
ENDS
For more information visit ACT online at http://www.act.org.nz or contact the ACT Parliamentary Office at
act@parliament.govt.nz.