Paterson's Abuse Allegations Totally Misleading

Fri, 24 Sep 2004

Ron Paterson's Abuse Allegations Totally Misleading

Recent claims in the media by Health and Disability Commissioner Ron Paterson stating that "abusive" communications from a complainant were reason for discontinuing his investigations are another example of bureaucrats seeking to discredit members of the public when the pressure goes on to have complaints resolved, according to the Democrats' Social Issues Researcher David Tranter. ACC are another agency which uses this tactic when the complainant considers they have not had a fair hearing.

The H.&D. case refers to the widely publicised case of Cheryll Rand-Wildbore concerning which communications with Mr. Paterson have certainly been robust and highly critical, but to call them "abusive" in the media is discredited by the list of this so-called abuse recently obtained from the Commissioner by myself as the Wildbore's advocate. (Copies emailed seperately).)

As with other cases I am involved in the Wildbore's forthrightness is understandable when seen in the light of the long, drawn-out and evasive processes which the Commissioner and other bureaucrats impose. In the H&D Commissioner's case such strong views as those expressed by the Wildbores should also be seen in the light of the letter dated 5.1.04 sent by former Director of Advocacy Tania Thomas to the Wildbores in which she stated, "I sincerely apologise for the service I contract not meeting an acceptable standard". This admission gives added significance to the 2003 report in which it is stated that an incredible 51% of people using the H&D Commissioner's advocacy service would not do so again, and that 48% were extremely dis-satisfied with the service.

Mr. Paterson's interpretation of the strongly expressed views of yet another highly dissatisfied complainant as "abuse" displays a preciousness and continuing reluctance to face the fact that the service he heads has customer dissatisfaction rates that would put any less protected organisation out of business in vary rapid time. He should get on with his job and stop complaining about side issues. ..........

ENDS

© Scoop Media