Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announces key appointments.
The Prime Minister has announced four new appointments to New Zealand's intelligence oversight functions, effective January 1, 2025. The Honourable Robert Dobson KC and the Honourable Brendan Brown KC will serve as Chief Commissioner of Intelligence Warrants and a Commissioner of Intelligence Warrants respectively. Graeme Speden is re-appointed as Deputy Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security for three years from December 1, 2024. Melanie Matthews joins Ben Bateman on the two-person Inspector-General's Advisory Panel.
According to Prime Minister Luxon, Commissioners of Intelligence Warrants are crucial in overseeing New Zealand's intelligence agencies and ensuring effective scrutiny. The appointments were made after consultation with the Leader of the Opposition and the Governor-General. Mr Luxon thanked the outgoing Chief Commissioner Sir Bruce Robertson for his dedication since 2013 and Lyn Provost for her contribution to the advisory panel since 2018.
These new roles will assist the Inspector-General in their independent oversight of New Zealand's intelligence and security agencies, with Melanie Matthews replacing Lyn Provost on the advisory panel.