National's Bob Simcock says he is sickened by the actions of Social Services Minister Steve Maharey, who has banned the Child, Youth and Family Service from taking part in a forum on child abuse.

"The 'Stop The Hurt' conference on mandatory reporting at Parliament next month is completely non-partisan; a fact recognised by health professionals, the Commissioner for Children (who will chair the conference), the media and seemingly everybody else, except Mr Maharey.

"Steve Maharey has banned CYFS from participating, justifying his actions in a letter which grossly misrepresents the nature of the conference.

"Mr Maharey is playing the lowest form of politics with this issue, and it's an issue which is far too serious for that sort of asinine behaviour. I find his actions and attitude abhorrent. When tragedies occur some of the blame inevitably lies at the feet of smug officials who refused to listen. Mr Maharey has clearly placed himself in that category.

"I have publicly released both my letter to CYFS Chief Social Worker Mike Doolan and the reply from Mr Maharey. Anyone who cannot see the pathetic political game playing in the second paragraph of Mr Maharey's letter needs their eyes checked.

"I call on Mr Maharey to immediately rescind this ban, and allow CYFS to participate in a full and frank discussion on this vital issue," Bob Simcock said.

Ends

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