|
|
Allegations
of Abuse in Institutions |
|
|
|
|
Former High Court judge
David Morris would look into allegations army cadets were abused at the army
school they trained at, Defence Minister Mark Burton said today. The allegations were
first raised earlier this month by former army cadet Ian Fraser, who claimed
there had been widespread "physical, psychological and sexual
abuse" of cadets at the Waiouru Regular Force Cadet School. Mr Burton announced
previously that an independent assessor would examine complaints of abuse at
Waiouru army cadet school dating back to the 1960s. He said at the time the
Government would ensure everyone with concerns and complaints would be
listened to and that any criminal offences would be referred to police. Mr Burton today said in
a statement that Mr Morris, who had a long and distinguished career as a
Crown solicitor and High Court judge, would carry out the ministerial
inquiry. "His judicial
experience will enable him to separate issues of mistreatment from more
serious allegations that even in the context of time may amount to criminal
offences," Mr Burton said. The claims would be
treated credibly, seriously and professionally, he said. Mr Morris would
evaluate all claims and views raised by former cadets of the Waiouru school. His report would go to
cabinet. "This report will
detail the facts surrounding the allegations as well as identifying any
further appropriate action that may be required." The New Zealand Army
would co-operate fully with the investigation, making available all relevant,
existing information it had. Mr Burton said he would
meet with Mr Morris early next week, when final terms of reference for the
inquiry would be released. Mr Morris has been
involved in a number of inquiries, including the National Women's Hospital
cervical cancer inquiry, investigations into the Mr Asia drug ring, and the
Erebus commission of inquiry. |
