Today marks one year since the Government’s formal apology to survivors of abuse in state care. On that day, words were spoken that recognised the harm done, acknowledged the suffering that was endured, and promised change.
“One year on, we must question the value of an apology made by a Government that refuses to listen and respond to the voices of survivors,” says the Green Party’s Spokesperson for Children, Kahurangi Carter.
“Survivors have repeatedly called for the Government to implement all 138 recommendations which resulted from the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care, honour the principles of Te Tiriti, and critically, stop the boot camp programmes that continue the cycle of harm to rangatahi in care today.
“The Inquiry provided us with harrowing testimony from survivors as well as invaluable insight into how we failed as a society and how we must change.
“Every child, young person or adult placed in state or faith-based care should be protected from harm and given everything they need to thrive. Survivors of abuse suffered at the hands of the state and churches deserve more than an apology; they deserve action.
“This Government has a responsibility to ensure that no one ever again suffers the horrific abuses these survivors have. But what’s clear is that the Government’s policies are going in a different direction.
“Today, we renew our commitment to all those survivors, whānau, hapū, iwi, communities and support networks who advocated and told their stories throughout the Inquiry. We will continue to stand with them and support their urgent call for action.
“We are proud to back the petition calling for an independent redress system,” says Kahurangi Carter.
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