Media statement For immediate release Thursday, 15 February 2007

Dyson announces first step for CYF complaints authority

The United Future deputy leader is delighted with the announcement from the Minister for Child, Youth and Family (CYF) that officials have begun work towards the establishment of an independent complaints authority for the service.

“Following the advocacy and hard work undertaken by (Judy Turner), I have requested my officials to investigate a complaints authority for Child, Youth and Family as in my view the member has proven that it would have merit,” said Ruth Dyson.

Mrs Dyson also confirmed “further work on such a complaints authority will continue with the participation of United Future.”

Mrs Turner said she is overjoyed at the announcement, but that the real winners of such an authority will be New Zealand families and children in particular.

“Finally the first steps are being taken to establish an independent entity to ensure CYF becomes accountable to New Zealand families.

“I look forward to pushing ahead with further work on the issue. I am also delighted that the hard work put in to sustaining a positive working relationship between United Future and the Government, has again led to a likely result that will benefit a large number of New Zealand families and children,” said Mrs Turner.

Ends

© Scoop Media