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Allegations
of Abuse in Institutions |
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Details of the official
inquiry into alleged abuses of cadets at Waiouru's Army cadet school should
be known this week. Defence Minister Mark
Burton last week announced an independent assessor would investigate claims
of abuse at the school and a name would be given to yesterday's Cabinet
meeting. But no assessor was
named yesterday. Instead Mr Burton said an announcement would now be made
later this week. "Further work
needs to be undertaken to finalise the appropriate form and terms of
reference for this assessment process," he said. "I reiterate that
these are complex, historical claims, many of which date back 25 to 45
years." The controversy erupted
this month when former cadet Ian Fraser, now living in Perth, alleged
widespread "physical, psychological and sexual abuse" of cadets
from the 1960s until the school closed in 1991. It had opened in 1948. It remained unclear
yesterday whether the probe would be a commission of inquiry, which has
considerable powers. Asked about the
possibility last week, Mr Burton had replied that was to be decided at
yesterday's Cabinet meeting. Mr Fraser told the
Herald yesterday he wanted a commission of inquiry. "One of the things
I've consistently said to Mark Burton is I would like whoever heads this up
to have the ability to compel testimony, especially when it comes to the
military." If constituted as a commission of inquiry, it would be the
second started this year. The other was called after the Rotorua police rape
allegations arose. Acting Prime Minister
Michael Cullen said yesterday that discussions would still be held on the
form of the inquiry, and a Cabinet committee would probably discuss the issue
again tomorrow. Mr Burton said the
results of the assessor's probe would include a full report on the facts,
identifying further action required, and separating mistreatment from more
serious allegations that might amount to criminal offences. Mr Burton would then
consult the Attorney General before recommending further action. |
