15 April 2009
Media Statement

Will family violence campaign be funded?

The Government must stop prevaricating over whether it will commit funding towards the ‘It’s Not Ok’ family violence campaign and give the public an answer, says Labour’s Social Development Spokesperson Annette King.

Figures highlighted by the Families Commission today show the campaign has been one of the most successful ever mounted in New Zealand.

“They show that a recent survey found that 99 per cent of Maori, and 90 per cent of Pacific Peoples recalled the campaign, and the overall retention rate was 90 per cent. This is a great result.

“There has been increased reporting of family violence as a result, which also shows the impact of the campaign, designed to tackle one of our most serious social issues,” Annette King says.

“Despite all this, at a recent select committee the Ministry of Social Development chief executive was unable to guarantee funding for the campaign would continue and the Government continues to duck questions.

“That’s not OK. The Government is either committed to reducing family violence or it is not and it’s time for Social Development Minister Paula Bennett to front up and explain what’s happening.”

ENDS

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