INDEPENDENT NEWS

Safety for police and their families vital

Published: Wed 30 Jul 2003 02:11 PM
Dr Paul Hutchison MP for Port Waikato
30 July 2003
Safety for police and their families vital
Ensuring the safety of police officers and their families, takes a step forward today with the introduction of the Police Complaints Authority (Conditional Name Protection) Bill by National Party MP Dr Paul Hutchison.
"The Bill, which gives conditional name protection to officers involved in firearm incidents while carrying out their duty, recognises on behalf of all New Zealanders the importance of the work the police do and the protection they should be afforded", Dr Hutchison says.
The Bill has been examined by the Ministry of Justice who found that "the Bill does not appear to be inconsistent with the Bill of Rights Act".
The Ministry of Justice is supporting Dr Hutchison's Bill saying "it is apparent from the Wilson and Horton decision that there is a window of opportunity between when the incident occurs and the laying of any charge for anyone who wishes to publish information relating to the identity of the officer. This Bill seeks to close that window. The stated intention of the Bill is to protect the security and well being of police officers and their family".
While acutely aware of the High Court decision ruling in favour of releasing the name of the constable involved the Waitara shooting, Dr Hutchison says, "It is encouraging that the Ministry considers the Bill serves to preserve the integrity of the Police Complaints Authority".
"This small restriction on the coverage of firearm incidents will provide the Authority with an opportunity to conduct its investigations unhindered by heightened media interest that results from public disclosure of the officer's identity.
"The Bill ensures the personal safety of police officers and their families is protected and it reflects a public recognition of the work they do", says Dr Hutchison.
Ends

Next in New Zealand politics

Concerns Conveyed To China Over Cyber Activity
By: New Zealand Government
Parliamentary Network Breached By The PRC
By: New Zealand Government
GDP Decline Reinforces Government’s Fiscal Plan
By: New Zealand Government
Tax Cuts Now Even More Irresponsible
By: New Zealand Labour Party
New Zealand Provides Further Humanitarian Support To Gaza And The West Bank
By: New Zealand Government
High Court Judge Appointed
By: New Zealand Government
View as: DESKTOP | MOBILE © Scoop Media