Thursday 22nd Jul 1999
Muriel Newman
Media Release -- Social Welfare

ACT Social Welfare Spokesman Dr Muriel Newman said a Stokes Valley kohunga reo must be 100% certain that the children in its care are safe.

Dr Newman made her comments after it was revealed today that a woman convicted of the bizarre ritualistic killing of her husband was working at the Koraunui Te Kohunga Reo.

"I believe the Kohunga has made the right decision to close while the issue is debated amongst parents and staff.

"At the end of the day the Kohunga has to be able to give parents a 100% guarantee that their children are safe in the care of the Kohunga's staff. These children cannot protect themselves, it's up to the adults in that community to ensure that caregivers are suitable.

"The rights and safety of these children must be the paramount concern in determining whether Huia Tawhai is in fact a suitable," said Muriel Newman.

ENDS

For more information visit ACT online at http://www.act.org.nz or contact the ACT Parliamentary Office at act@parliament.govt.nz.

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