New Zealand First has welcomed the independent review of inappropriate behaviour at the Hamilton Fire Station but has pointed out that there are further matters that should be investigated.

“We are concerned that the issues we raised in the House about the finances at Hamilton, the treatment of a whistle-blower, and the misuse of the Internet, are only part of serious disciplinary problems in the Fire Service.

“Although the appointment of Helen Cull QC, by the Fire Service Commission, to conduct an independent review is a step in the right direction, we should have been consulted about the terms of reference and related matters.

“For example, there is a case at one Fire Station where a Christian firefighter has complained of being persecuted for objecting to pornographic pictures on the walls. He claims to have been disciplined by a superior for tearing these pictures down.

“There is also a case of alleged misuse of travel expenditure which we will be pursuing. A few individuals must not be allowed to ruin the reputation of our firefighters,” said Mr Peters.

Ends

© Scoop Media