9 December 2009 Media Statement

Power must meet Manukau lawyers

Labour’s Justice Spokespeople Lianne Dalziel and Charles Chauvel are calling on Justice Minister Simon Power to meet members of the Manukau criminal bar to get their perspective on Dame Margaret Bazley’s Legal Aid Review report.

Lianne Dalziel, who has welcomed many of the recommendations in the report, said the report nevertheless made unjust allegations about the integrity and calibre of many lawyers working in the legal aid area.

“Charles Chauvel and I met members of the Manukau bar today and we heard a far different story to that told by Dame Margaret in her report.

“I have told Simon Power that Labour wants to work with the Government as it develops a better system.

“But the report as it is will act as a barrier to this because it attacks the reputations of many of the hardworking lawyers operating in a very difficult environment in South Auckland. Until Simon Power repudiates the allegations it will be difficult to move forward.”

Charles Chauvel said it was impossible to have a “one size fits all” approach to legal aid in New Zealand.

“There needs to be an understanding that what works in Manukau may not work elsewhere, and vice versa.

“I believe that most lawyers are committed to improving access to justice. The Government needs to hear their point of view.”

ENDS

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