Race Relations Case Concluded

The proceedings between National MP Murray McCully and Race Relations Commissioner Joris de Bres over the Commissioner's speech on the United Nations Day for Cultural Heritage in 2002 have been concluded.

The Human Rights Commission says it accepts, and will not be appealing, the judgment of the Full Court of the High Court that the immunity from proceedings in the Human Rights Commission Act 1993 did not apply to the speech.

Mr McCully has advised that he will not be further pursuing his claim in the Human Rights Review Tribunal.

Mr McCully and Mr de Bres both recognise the importance of freedom of speech and the fact that the nation's early history is a matter of sensitivity for New Zealanders.

Mr de Bres has expressed regret at any offence caused by his speech.

Mr McCully says he is satisfied that the question of immunity for Commissioners has been properly settled by the High Court and, in light of Mr de Bres' expression of regret at any offence caused, sees no point in prolonging the matter.

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