31 March 2008

Green initiated victim's inquiry makes good sense to Key

John Key's announcement of a victims' rights package which capitalises on the recommendations of a Green Party initiated inquiry is being welcomed by Nandor Tanczos, Green Party Justice Spokesperson.

Nandor says that even though the National Party refused to participate in some of the work of the inquiry, he is pleased that they have come out in favour of the conclusions that its members put forward.

"The select committee did an enormous amount of work on this, and produced an important report that has been welcomed by victims' support agencies and justice reformers. This is one more endorsement of those findings."

Nandor says that there is no doubt that victims are often treated poorly by the justice system, and that much can be done to improve how the system works for victims.

"The response to the inquiry's recommendations has been positive from both the Government and advocates for victims' rights and its great to see the National Party get on board as well," Nandor says.

"I am pleased that one of the key points, of establishing a single agency to work with all government agencies that deal with victims, has been recognised as worthwhile by National."

Nandor also notes that the government has asked the Law Commission to do further work on establishing a victims' compensation scheme to cover areas outside the jurisdiction of ACC.

ENDS

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