Media Release
29 May 2013
For immediate release

SCOUTS New Zealand will not challenge the recent Employment Relations Authority decision

"SCOUTS New Zealand has decided not to challenge the Employment Relations Authority decision in the case involving Richard Uerata-Jennings," said Martin Smith, Chair of the SCOUTS New Zealand Board.

"SCOUTS New Zealand is a large nation-wide movement with a proud history; we work hard for our volunteer members, and the 15,000 SCOUTS in New Zealand.

"Mr Uerata-Jennings has distracted us from our core activities long enough and we would like to put this matter behind us, once and for all," said Mr Smith.

SCOUTS New Zealand was deeply surprised by the Employment Relations Authority determination. The Authority questioned whether the SCOUTS New Zealand investigation in relation to Mr Uerata-Jennings was robust enough.

"SCOUTS New Zealand carried out a detailed investigation in relation to Mr Uerata-Jennings," said Niamh Lawless, Chief Executive of SCOUTS New Zealand.

"However, in hindsight, SCOUTS New Zealand acknowledges the point made by the Employment Relations Authority. We are pleased that the Authority found that Mr Uerata-Jennings actions were significantly blameworthy and that, as a result, his compensation was reduced by 90 per cent.

"SCOUTS New Zealand has reviewed their credit card policy, and the way we audit employee's use of SCOUTS New Zealand credit facilities.

"I will continue to tightly enforce the SCOUTS New Zealand credit card policy.

"The Board and I are totally committed to the SCOUTS New Zealand movement and we look forward to continuing to work hard for the young people we represent," said Mrs Lawless.

ENDS

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