New Commissioner for Children

Tuesday, August 12, 2003

Children's Commissioner an important new appointment

The Public Health Association has welcomed the appointment of Cindy Kiro as the new Commissioner for Children.

PHA director Dr Gay Keating says Dr Kiro has a huge range of expertise in both the health and social sectors. Dr Keating says Dr Kiro is a highly-qualified researcher, but she also has business skills and expertise in social policy.

"This appointment will be good news for the children of New Zealand."

Dr Keating says the Commissioner for Children is an important role because it is a voice for children whose needs can get lost in the political process. The fact that Dr Kiro is of Ngapuhi, Ngati Hine and Ngati Te Rangiwewehe descent, as well as the mother of two sons, means she can also bring an additional perspective to the role, Dr Keating says.

She says retiring commissioner Roger Mclay has done a great job of raising the profile of children's issue in the media.

ENDS

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