Greens welcome new Children's Commissioner

Green Children's Affairs Spokesperson Sue Bradford welcomes the appointment of Dr Cynthia (Cindy) Kiro as the new Commissioner for Children.

Ms Bradford said she looked forward to working with Dr Kiro to help improve the lives of our children and young people.

"I am very pleased to see the appointment of such an experienced and committed professional to this role. Dr Kiro's knowledge of tikanga Maori and her links with Maori communities is very welcome."

Ms Bradford said key issues facing Dr Kiro included the need to counter the growing levels of abuse and violence against children and young people, and the very high levels of poverty affecting families; as confirmed by the recent Social Development Ministry 'Social Report'.

"The need to ensure greater protection and support for our children and young people is one of the top issues facing our society right now. If we can't guarantee them safety, we lose our right to claim we are a civilised society," Ms Bradford said.

Pressing issues include:

* the need to repeal the so-called 'smacking section' of the Crimes Act, Section 59, which allows children to be physically punished and hit; and

* the need for a 'universal child benefit' (similar to the old Family Benefit) which would be available to every family per child, regardless of social background or parental income.

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