Royal Commission
not an excuse to ignore security concerns
The
Royal Commission of Inquiry into the Christchurch terror
attacks must not be used as an excuse to ignore concerns
about our security and intelligence systems right now,
Leader of the Opposition Simon Bridges says.
“The Prime
Minister told media this morning that questions to date have
been around where resourcing was focussed.
“The reality
is that our security risk is now higher and answers are
needed from the Prime Minister about whether our Security
and Intelligence agencies have the capability to detect
terrorist and extremist behaviour right now.
“We support
urgent firearms reforms, but we also believe there should be
action now into whether the capabilities of our security and
intelligence services are fit for purpose.
“I’ve
already been clear that our cyber security systems and tools
need to be enhanced if we want to keep up with other
countries and terrorist organisations and be serious about
preventing further attacks.
“Those carrying out these
roles need to be able to tell us frankly whether they have
the ability to protect New Zealanders at home and overseas
as we expect them to.
“New Zealanders need to be safe
and cannot wait for the completion of a Royal Commission of
Inquiry, which is likely to take
years.”
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