He Pānui Pāpāho / Media Release

14 September 2016

New legal crackdown on domestic abuse a ‘positive step’ for whānau

Te Pou Matakana Chairperson Merepeka Raukawa-Tait called the Prime Minister’s announcement of new legal powers to prosecute domestic violence offenders a ‘positive step’ to addressing the generational issues of harm.

“Increasing the legal protections for whānau affected by domestic violence cases is a positive step, as it ensures immediate whānau safety is put first,” says Raukawa-Tait.

While optimistic about strengthened legal support, Ms Raukawa-Tait says these need to be coupled with programmes and community supports to address the learnt behaviours of domestic violence for generational change to be effective.

Ms Raukawa-Tait says a multi-sector approach focused on promoting positive parenting and behaviours, and investing in community based support services for whānau, is also required to ensure lasting change.

“We need to get to the abusers before they commit these types of offences, work with them to find ways to address their violence issues, and un-teach a lifetime of violence as the answer to their problems.

“We need to show our women and mokopuna what loving and being loved and respected looks like. That they deserve better.”

Ms Raukawa-Tait has also praised the White Ribbon Day campaign and highlighted the need for more positive role models to speak out about domestic violence and violence against women and children.

ENDS

Background info on TPM:

Te Pou Matakana (TPM) is responsible for commissioning initiatives that drive whānau health and wellbeing by building on the strengths and assets of Maori communities in Te Ika-a-Māui.

TPM’s model for commissioning has measuring outcomes for whānau at the heart of its activities. This commissioning for outcomes approach enables TPM to work collaboratively both with Whānau Ora partners and whānau to maximise outcomes for whānau.

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