Cycle of domestic violence demands response

Women and children at risk of being killed are being let down by the Government’s failure to tackle New Zealand’s appalling domestic violence record, Labour’s Women’s Affairs spokesperson Carol Beaumont says.

“The report of the Independent Family Violence Death Review Committee shows that half of all homicides in this country are family violence-related and in most cases there has been a known history of abuse.

“The loss of life is preventable.

“We have long known that we have a problem and that New Zealand, which has been a world leader in so many areas, is far from being world-leading in working to eliminate violence against women and children.

“The last Labour Government commenced comprehensive work in this area but much of that has been ignored, with funding cuts and piecemeal legal responses.

“National must accept it has a responsibility to act – failure to do so is tantamount to condoning this violence.

“The report’s comments about the impact on children witnessing violence against family members and the cycle of abuse are chilling.

“How can we not act to eliminate domestic violence?

“The Government must step up and show some leadership. It needs to work collaboratively with all of those trying so hard to prevent violence and support victims.

“The response must address prevention, provision of adequate support services and reform of the criminal justice system.

“Today’s report provides a number of significant recommendations. They should be assessed and, if useful and workable, acted upon,” Carol Beaumont said.

Labour Leader David Cunliffe will be making a significant announcement on Labour’s response to violence against women and children in the next few weeks.

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