Practical solutions needed this Women’s Day

New Zealand’s disgraceful record on violence against women requires more action here at home, says Labour’s spokesperson for Women’s Affairs Sue Moroney.

While Minister for Women's Affairs, Jo Goodhew is overseas signing UN declarations decrying violence against women, Labour is taking a practical approach to addressing the issue.

“Today is International Women’s Day and I am calling on Ms Goodhew and Justice Minister Judith Collins to revisit the domestic violence related information the Family Court has access to,” Sue Moroney said.

“The absence of this information was raised by retiring family court Judge Peter Boshier last year.

“This is one practical way that the Government could demonstrate zero tolerance for violence against women.

"I am advised that judges already have access to this information in the criminal court and that should apply in the Family Court too. It appears this can be done without a law change, but I am prepared to investigate a legislative solution if that is required.

"If Minister Goodhew is serious about zero tolerance to family violence, then she will also ensure the police report family violence statistics in their annual report, which they ceased doing last year.

"Zero tolerance has to be more than a slogan. It should be a driver to use all the resources at our disposal to tackle our abysmal record on violence against women," Sue Moroney said.

ends

© Scoop Media

Metservice: Where Will Snow Fall And What To Look Out For

The deep Antarctic air that is expected to sweep across the country this week is bringing very significant weather to many provinces.Here's the official MetService view of the key weather concerns for the country.

MetService Media and Communications Meteorologist Dan Corbett commented,"While snow will be a major issue for those in the South Island, wind and hail will affect many North Island districts."

Snow is expected to fall to sea level, or very near it, from Southland to South Canterbury from late Wednesday into Thursday and Friday. The snow level is expected to rise to 200m from about Christchurch northwards... More>>