CYF Finally Gets It Right

Wednesday 23 Jul 2003 Dr Muriel Newman Press Releases -- Social Welfare

ACT New Zealand Social Welfare Spokesman Dr Muriel Newman today congratulated CYF for granting accreditation to Inter-Country Adoption New Zealand to act as an agency for inter-country adoption, but was disappointed that the process had taken so long.

"ICANZ first applied for accreditation in 1999. However, the length time that the process was taking left the Government open to accusations that it was purposely dragging its feet because of anti-adoption biases," Dr Newman said.

"ICANZ is an excellent organisation that has brought enormous joy to New Zealand families, and given at-risk Russian children an opportunity for a life of love, happiness and success.

"Given the chequered background of this accreditation process, it is great to see that the right decision has finally been made - especially as there are now so few New Zealand babies available for adoption.

"For once, the Government has made the right decision, and can be congratulated for its actions," Dr Newman said.

ENDS

For more information visit ACT online at http://www.act.org.nz or contact the ACT Parliamentary Office at act@parliament.govt.nz.

© Scoop Media