Hawkins must resign over police comms failure

The report into the police communications centres highlights the Labour Government’s total neglect of the police over the last six years,” ACT Deputy Leader and Police spokesman Dr Muriel Newman said today.

“There is nothing in this report that would give the public any confidence in the 111 emergency system. New Zealanders should feel very afraid,” Dr Newman said.

“The report paints a very grim picture of a demoralised police force lacking leadership, resources and management.

“There is not even a clear understanding within the police of the purpose of the communications centres.

“There is a lack of buy-in from the districts and the communications centres act in isolation from each other, failing to achieve their performance standards with answering and responding to calls in a timely manner,” Dr Newman said.

“Sadly this report comes too late to protect the victims of Labour’s incompetence, including Ireana Asher and Peter Bentley.

“The responsibility for this appalling state of affairs rests solely with the Minister of Police.

"George Hawkins has failed in his duty to ensure this vital department is adequately resourced, appropriately staffed and running well as a result.

"George Hawkins is responsible for putting the lives of the public and frontline police at risk.

"He must resign," Dr Newman said.

ENDS

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