Chief Ombudsman: progress of investigation on school closure

Chief Ombudsman confirms progress of investigation into school closure consultation process

18 July 2013

The Chief Ombudsman Dame Beverley Wakem is currently completing the information gathering stage in her investigation of the way in which the Ministry of Education conducts consultation on school closures and mergers. “Anyone who still wishes to make a submission should do so by 9 August,” says Dame Beverley.

“I have received a large amount of information from the Ministry of Education which my staff have been pouring through and carefully assessing. I have also received some submissions from schools and the general public.”

“Following analysis of the submissions my investigating staff will conduct interviews with schools in Christchurch in late August. After that I hope to be in a position to draft a provisional report,” says Dame Beverley.

“The requirements of natural justice mean that my report will not be published immediately. Affected parties will be given the opportunity to comment before it is finalised.”

“I am expecting to publish my final report late this year.”

“My report will assess whether the consultation processes have been conducted in a manner that adequately ensures fair and meaningful participation by affected parties.”

Submissions can be made by emailing the Ombudsman’s Office at info@ombudsman.parliament.nz (and entering “school closure consultations” in the subject line), or by writing to the Office at PO Box 10152 Wellington, or by calling the Office on 0800 802 602. Further information about the functions of the Ombudsman can be found at the Ombudsman’s website: www.ombudsman.parliament.nz.

ENDS

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