Tony Gibbs C.N.Z.M. becomes Patron to The New Zealand Howard League for Penal Reform

The President of the NZ Howard League for Penal Reform, Peter Williams QC today announced that Tony Gibbs C.N.Z.M had agreed to become inaugural Patron to the organisation.

Mr Williams said the League’s decision to appoint its first Patron is part of the organisation’s move to step up its work to reduce recidivism amongst the country’s offenders. “To do that we need a solid anchor at the top, a person of integrity who is highly respected across the community,” he said.

Mr Williams said Tony Gibbs was a tireless campaigner for the principles and causes in which he believes including a respect for proper human values.

“Tony Gibbs brings significant mana to the role of Patron and his experience and networks will be a valuable addition to the League’s effectiveness.”

Tony Gibbs said the League’s work was vital to ensure that the penal system isn’t merely a ‘costly human scrap-heap’ that New Zealanders should be ashamed of.

“If we want safer communities and better outcomes from the penal system, we all have a part to play in making that happen. As a society we can’t simply wash our hands of the problems once the key is turned on a prisoner. Inevitably the thousands in our prisons will come back to our communities and rehabilitation must be the focus to make sure that they don’t re-offend.”

Mr Williams said the League’s members unanimously elected Mr Gibbs to the Patron’s role at their recent meeting. “We are delighted that Tony has accepted this role and very proud to have a person of his standing now at the head of our organisation.” ENDS

About the NZ Howard League for Penal Reform:

The NZ Howard League for Penal Reform (NZHLPR) is a voluntary and non-government funded organisation based in Auckland. The League was established in England over 80 years ago.

The NZHLPR’s membership includes members of the legal profession as well as those in the community who are interested in promoting the League’s objectives, which include:

• Monitoring and reporting on what is happening within the justice system, the police, the courts and the prison systems.

• Promoting good policy and practice within the justice system which should achieve open, fair and just treatment of both victims and offenders – including that provided within a restorative justice framework.

• Promoting better ways of addressing crime and punishment in New Zealand.

• Crime prevention and rehabilitation of offenders.

• Educating and promoting knowledge of and interest in matters relating to the criminal justice system.

• Debating and making submissions on matters relating to human rights and civil liberties and penal reform.

ENDS

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