Let Quake Outcasts Move on Says Chief Human Rights Commissioner

The Chief Human Rights Commissioner David Rutherford is calling on the Government yet again to settle the Quake Outcasts case following yesterday’s announcement that the Outcasts have had to file new High Court proceedings in relation to the Government’s most recent land offer.

“We regret that the Quake Outcasts have felt the Government has left them no alternative to litigation because in actual fact these issues should be able to be resolved without litigation,” Mr Rutherford said.

Mr Rutherford said the Commission is considering whether to intervene in the High Court proceedings.

“We are very concerned that these matters remain unresolved so long after the earthquakes and despite a clear decision from the Supreme Court about the lawfulness of the previous offers in March 2015,” Mr Rutherford said.

“It is disheartening that the relevant Government agencies have still not agreed acceptable arrangements with this group of Canterbury residents who have been unable to move forward with rebuilding their lives, five years on.

“Instead, they have been mired in protracted litigation and negotiation with Crown agencies.”

“The continued absence of an appropriate resolution is having an ongoing impact on the mental and physical health, housing and property rights of the people affected by the decisions.,” Mr Rutherford said.

“These people have suffered long enough. The Government needs to do the right thing and let these people move on with their lives,” Mr Rutherford said.

ENDS

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