David

SHEARER

Labour Leader

21 May 2013 MEDIA STATEMENT
Only a full inquiry will restore confidence in GCSB

The claim by the Inspector-General that the 88 cases of potential illegal spying did not break the law won’t reassure Kiwis who have lost confidence in the agency and its oversight, says Labour Leader David Shearer.

“The Inspector-General has found that there were ‘arguably’ no breaches in the 88 cases involving New Zealanders. Well that finding doesn’t exactly inspire us with confidence. In fact, it doesn’t tell whether the spying was legal or illegal – all it says is that the Inspector-General can make an argument that it’s legal.

“It also doesn’t help that the Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security is supposed to be the public watchdog, but the public is not allowed to see his report into these potential breaches of the GCSB Act.

“New Zealanders have lost faith in our intelligence agencies and in the oversight they receive - from the Inspector-General’s role right to the Prime Minister who has ultimate responsibility.

“The only way to restore public confidence is to carry out a thorough independent inquiry across the entire intelligence network. A band aid solution involving piecemeal changes to legislation won’t work,” said David Shearer.

ENDS

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