Glenn Inquiry Builds Momentum

The independent Glenn Inquiry addressing child abuse and domestic violence is moving swiftly to the next stage of its work after the release of the People’s Report.

The inquiry is heartened by the expressions of support after the report gave a voice to 500 people most affected by family abuse: victims, frontline workers and their families.

Chairman Bill Wilson QC and chief executive Kirsten Rei say the inquiry is determined that the debate it has provoked does not end on a negative note or leave people feeling powerless or despairing. Although the report spelt out big failures in the current system for dealing with family violence, there were also pockets of excellence.

The inquiry regards these success stories as a spur for action as much as the negative experiences and intends to build on the good work already being done by government and community agencies to help and protect families and abuse victims.

"We urge everyone to read the report carefully to gain a better understanding of what people face. We also ask everyone to respect the process of the People's Report and the insight from the people who came forward."

Mr Wilson and Mrs Rei want to stress that the inquiry is yet to make formal recommendations and nothing is set in stone. Drawing up firm recommendations will be part of developing a Blueprint for Change.

"The experiences of those who contributed to the People’s Report will remain the touchstone for all the inquiry’s work. But we want to assure people that we are keeping an open mind about all ideas. In particular, despite news media reports to this effect, the Glenn Inquiry is not necessarily advocating the courts shift the presumption of proof so it lies with perpetrators.

"The aim of the People’s Report was to listen to abuse victims and frontline workers and record their views about what things worked well, what didn't, and their ideas for change. Revisiting the burden of proof is only one of many ideas identified by people who spoke to the inquiry and must be seen in this context. "

The inquiry aims to have a Blueprint completed before the end of the year but in the meantime again urges political parties to reach an accord so they agree to consider meaningful long term solutions for change from the inquiry without divisive point scoring.

Mr Wilson and Mrs Rei also want to urge anyone who feels vulnerable or in danger in their present relationship or family situation that there are people and organisations they can turn to for help.

If you are in immediate danger call 111
If you need help call:
Women’s Refuge: 0800 REFUGE or 0800 733 843
Victim Support: 0800 victim or 0800 842 846
Lifeline: 0800 543 354
Kidsline: 0800 KIDSLINE or 0800 543 754
The full People’s Report, an overview and further background information on the Glenn Inquiry can be found at www.glenninquiry.org.nz.

ENDS

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