Prevention Of Child Abuse Needs More Commitment And Dedication

"New Zealand society is not yet sufficiently aware of or condemning enough of child abuse," Commissioner for Children Roger McClay told the Open Home Foundation in Auckland today. Mr McClay was officiating at the opening of The Open Home Foundation's new premises in Onehunga.

He said that "all allegations of child abuse had to be taken seriously and responded to promptly".

Mr McClay submitted a ten-point plan as a checklist for all who deal with children. "A no tolerance policy towards child abuse was needed now and would be supported by most New Zealanders" he said.

Mr McClay made an emotional plea for our society to rededicate itself to our children. "The care of our children now will determine the sort of society we are in the future," he said.

Full speech notes are available from the Office of the Commissioner for Children. Telephone: 04-471-1410.

Office of the Commissioner for Children PO Box 5610 Thorndon WELLINGTON

phone: 4711 410 phone fax: 4711 418 fax

email: children@occ.org.nz email

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