11 October 2006

Mark Welcomes Youth Justice Re-Think

Ron Mark has welcomed the decision by the Minister for Child Youth and Family to think again about locating a Youth Justice facility at Te Waerenga Road in Rotorua, with the announcement today of a preferred alternative site on Parekarangi Trust land, off State Highway 30.

“The Minister has been true to her word in that the decision on the Te Waerenga site was far from cut-and-dried, and I am pleased that she has genuinely listened to the concerns of the local community and New Zealand First during the consultation process,” said Mr Mark.

“The need for secure facilities for young offenders who commit serious crimes has never been in question as far as New Zealand First is concerned.

“What was at issue in this case was the location of the facilities, and the need to recognise that the local community is part of the issue. There is an obligation on government that the community is consulted and listened to, and I am happy that this was the case on this occasion.

“New Zealand First looks forward to seeing local iwi, the community and service providers engaged in a productive consultation process.

“I am hopeful that this will result in a win-win solution for everyone involved, with the establishment of a Youth Justice Central facility that will provide early and meaningful intervention and rehabilitation for troubled young people,’ he concluded.

ENDS

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