Judith Collins
National Families and Associate Justice Spokesperson

30 March 2004

Minister shows disregard for family court accountability

By supporting the non-disclosure of statistics relating to serious delays in the Family Court, the Minister of Courts is showing complete disregard for accountability within the justice system, says Judith Collins National Families and Associate Justice Spokesperson.

David Benson-Pope, on behalf of the Minister of Courts, confirmed in the House yesterday that he agreed with the Family Court's policy of keeping no records on the number of cases that are delayed, or any other statistics about the court.

"This appalling and is direct contrast to an answer to an earlier question stating that he did not regard the court as secretive," says Ms Collins

"How many other parents have been waiting in excess of three years to find out whether or not their children can come home to live?

"Until the family court is opened up, injustices like that highlighted by Nick Smith will continue to occur."

Ends

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