531 PI
Niu FM
PMN News

Will's Word is Pacific Mornings host William Terite's daily opinion piece on the latest news happening here and around the Pacific.

Photo/ PMN News

Opinion

'Devastating' report requires swift response from govt

Pacific Mornings' host William Terite says the recommendations from the Abuse In Care Inquiry need to be acted on, not just swept under the carpet.

William Terite
William Terite
Published
25 July 2024, 7:22am
Share
Copy Link

This is a transcript from Will’s Word on Thursday, 25th of July.

The findings from the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care are deeply upsetting.

They reveal that Māori and Pacific survivors suffered more physical abuse in care than others.

This report is one of New Zealand's largest investigations ever, gathering stories from nearly 3000 people over 133 days of hearings.

The report itself is huge—3000 pages and weighing 14 kilograms, with 15 parts and five case studies.

Only 5 per cent of those who spoke out were Pacific, highlighting a significant lack of Pacific voices in the process.

This shows there are barriers for Pacific communities to engage in such inquiries.

Recognising this is important, but it also shows how much more needs to be done to ensure everyone's experiences are heard and addressed.

These findings, while extremely devastating, should also make policymakers determined for change. We need to act on the recommendations from this inquiry quickly and thoroughly.

…. That’s Will’s Word…