The Government strengthens protection for people in state care.
The New Zealand Government has introduced several law changes aimed at better protecting individuals in state care following the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care.
Lead Coordination Minister Erica Stanford says that while improvements have been made, such as introducing professional standards and staff training, there is more work to be done. The Responding to Abuse in Care Legislation Amendment Bill will make changes to various acts, including removing strip searches of children in care, strengthening restrictions for people working with young children, enforcing better record-keeping by Government agencies, and amending the Crimes Act to include disability in the definition of vulnerable adult.
The new legislation also closes a loophole allowing some individuals with overseas convictions to work with children. The Public Records Act will be strengthened, granting the Chief Archivist more powers to address issues with record-keeping.
Minister for Children Karen Chhour emphasizes that the Bill is just the first step in addressing the recommendations of the Royal Commission of Inquiry and that the Government will continue to carefully consider the remaining suggestions.
The Responding to Abuse in Care Legislation Amendment Bill has its first reading, following the National Apology tomorrow.