Wally Haumaha: Allegations of bullying raised in Parliament

Thursday, 9 August 2018, 3:52 pm
Article: RNZ

Jane Patterson, Political Editor

The inquiry into Wally Haumaha's appointment as deputy police commissioner may now also consider allegations of bullying, detailed in Parliament today.

Wally Haumaha Photo: SUPPLIED

There's currently a government inquiry looking into the process, in light of comments he made defending police officers accused of rape in 2004.

It's already been delayed after the original inquiry head, Pauline Kingi, stepped aside after questions were raised by the National Party about whether she had a personal conflict of interest.

Ms Kingi was found to have endorsed Mr Haumaha's skills on the professional networking platform LinkedIn.

In Parliament this afternoon, National Party deputy leader Paula Bennett wanted to know if there had been any formal or informal reports of "intimidation towards women" by Mr Haumaha.

In response, senior minister Grant Robertson said any bullying of public servants was unacceptable, and the terms of reference should be broad enough to include any new allegations.

Paula Bennett in the House. (File photo) Photo: RNZ / Richard Tindiller

© Scoop Media

RNZ

New Zealand's public broadcaster, providing comprehensive NZ news and current affairs, specialist audio features and documentaries.

Radio New Zealand is a Crown entity established under the Radio New Zealand Act 1995. Radio New Zealand News are vital elements in our programming, providing impartial news and information to New Zealanders every day. Radio New Zealand (RNZ) provides listeners with exciting and independent radio programmes in accordance with the Radio New Zealand Charter.

Contact RNZ

• Website - www.radionz.co.nz
• Twitter - @rnz_news
• Facebook
• Link - Contact RNZ