Simon Power National Party Law & Order Spokesman

9 December 2005

Prisoner compo ruling repugnant

National's Law & Order spokesman, Simon Power, says the worst fears of the victims of crime have been realised with the Court of Appeal decision to uphold, and in one case increase, compensation to five of New Zealand's worst criminals.

"This decision is repugnant to justice, and falls at the feet of Justice Minister Phil Goff. I hope he is satisfied.

"National told him repeatedly that prisoners should not be awarded monetary compensation at all, but he ignored this," says Mr Power.

"He said he would appeal these decisions. Well, look what's happened.

"These are some of this country's worst criminals and they should get no favours. One of them, a cold-blooded killer, even gets more compensation.

"Surely he must now see the error of his ways and change the law so they can't apply for compensation under any circumstances. He must move swiftly to alleviate the public's concerns.

"Every New Zealander must feel for the victims and their families. They have suffered years of trauma while their attackers sit back and win payouts from the taxpayer.

"Now that this has happened, the victims should at least be paid this compo without having to relive their ordeal, as Mr Goff's law prescribes," says Mr Power.

ENDS

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