Issues Surrounding The Death Of James Whakaruru
COMMUNICATION TO ALL MEDIA
RELEASE OF A MAJOR REPORT INTO THE ISSUES SURROUNDING THE DEATH OF JAMES WHAKARURU
From Hon Roger McClay
Commissioner for Children
It had been my intention to release the above, significant report tomorrow, Tuesday 13 June 2000.
I have had genuine and strong advice from Maoridom that to release the report tomorrow, on James’ birthday would be inappropriate and offensive to some.
I bow willingly to that advice.
Very extensive consultation with a wide range of government/non government agencies and Ministers of the Crown has meant that final drafting and printing has not taken place yet anyway.
I am also wanting very much to consult with Whanau of little James. They have a right to hear first of the findings of this office. Following that it is my intention to release the report on Sunday 25 June at 3.00 pm.
Embargoed copies should be available to all media on the previous Thursday or Friday.
I regret the long time this report has taken.
It is probably the most significant report yet from the Office of the Commissioner for Children.
We want in the Office of the Commissioner for Children to do justice to the life and memory of a brave little New Zealander, so have taken the time to do the best possible job.
I appreciate the attitude and genuine concern shown by the media personnel who have followed this case so closely.
ENDS