Wednesday 7th Jul 1999
Muriel Newman
Media Release -- Justice

ACT Social Welfare Spokesman and Northland based MP Dr Muriel Newman today said a Northland man who assaulted his de facto partner and was granted name suppression had not displayed the actions of a leader.

"I share the concerns of Northlanders that this man who hit his partner was granted name suppression because he argued that its publication would damage his mana. I also admire the Northland women who have taken up this issue so strongly and are continuing to speak out about it.

"His actions are a real blow for the women and children of Northland who are suffering in silence.

"It has been reported that this man is a leader in the community. If that is so he should be showing leadership by facing the community, by facing up to his actions and getting the help he needs.

"Family violence is a major problem in this country. Leaders who are part of the problem are of no use to the community.

"By hiding behind the excuse that his mana will be damaged if he is revealed, this man is in fact making the problem in Northland worse. He is making it harder for other men in the community to see the need to stop the cycle of violence in their homes and get help," said Muriel Newman.

ENDS

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