UNICEF backs swift action on child abuse reports

Wellington, 18 May 2010. -- UNICEF NZ is pleased that Police have appointed a taskforce to ensure that child abuse cases are dealt with quickly and appropriately.

The Independent Police Complaints Authority (IPCA) today released a report that highlights poor practice in investigating and dealing with child abuse cases in several police districts.

UNICEF NZ Executive Director, Dennis McKinlay, says that there is no room for complacency or less than optimal response where suspected child abuse is concerned.

“It is simply not acceptable that harm to our youngest and most vulnerable citizens did not get the attention and concern it deserves, as shown in the IPCA report. Children’s right to safety and protection depends on informed adults speaking out and managing their responsibilities properly.

“For files to be ignored, lost or inadequately followed up is disgraceful. We are also very concerned that many police were found to be inadequately trained to take care of the needs of the young victims.

“Children in these perilous situations need and deserve the very best professional intervention. If we are serious about dealing with our very poor record of protecting children from maltreatment we must take this report very seriously indeed.”

Mr McKinlay says that New Zealand performs poorly in the developed world on child abuse and maltreatment.

“We have known this for some time. We need to be assured that no effort is spared to address and reduce New Zealand’s shocking record of cruelty towards children. It is imperative that the tools, expertise and personnel to change the situation are given priority. To do anything less demeans us all and our standing in the international community.

“Children are our most precious national assets. It is up to every one of us to make sure that they are given priority and their safety and protection is top of the nation’s agenda. We depend on a competent and adequately trained and resourced police force to help us achieve this.

“We look forward to seeing the recommendations fully implemented and the changes that are necessary made soon”.

ENDS

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