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Allegations
of Abuse in Institutions |
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A group planning to
take legal action against the Salvation Army is refusing to deal with the
religious charity's independent watchdog, Roger McClay. The Salvation Army is
holding an inquiry into claims of abuse alleged to have taken place at its
former children's homes. It appointed former children's commissioner Mr
McClay as an independent monitor of its investigation last week. Salvation Army Abuse Survivors
spokeswoman Jan Lowe said Mr McClay faced a conflict of interest as he was
working for the Salvation Army yet expected to make impartial and independent
judgments. "We are mistrustful of having any dealings with him because
he's perceived by people in the group as being part of the Salvation Army
team." The group of 27 people,
which formed two months ago, wants an independent inquiry. It plans to take a
class action against the Salvation Army and is seeking legal advice. Mr McClay said he was
surprised by the group's attitude and his judgments would not be influenced
by his employer. His pay rate had not
been finalised. "For
five-and-a-half years I was paid by the Government (as children's
commissioner) and when I needed to I told them where to get off." He said he was open to
being employed by an independent agency or group rather than the Salvation
Army. Salvation Army
spokesman Alistair Herring said Mr McClay was appointed because of his
faultless credibility. "(Payment) does not in any way mean his
independence is being compromised and it would be a judgment on his integrity
to suggest that." The Salvation Army has
received at least 23 formal claims of abuse. Most originated from stays at
Hodderville Boys Home in the Waikato town of Putaruru, and a Salvation Army
home in Masterton. Child, Youth and Family
has been contacted by 17 people claiming to be former state wards, alleging
abuse. -------------------- CAPTION: Roger McClay:
Credibility. |
