Hon Tariana Turia
Associate Minister for Social Development and Employment

25 August 2009
Media Statement

Turia: No shade of violence is acceptable

Tariana Turia has reiterated her continuing support to eliminate family violence, following the results of the citizens initiated referendum.

“The issue for me has always been about aspirations,” Mrs Turia said.

“As a nation we must stand tall in our determination to address the unacceptably high levels of family violence.

“Last week I attended a ceremony in Mount Roskill where a group of Pasifika men stood before their families and communities to speak of the violence that had come from their own hands.

“It was the most inspiring experience to see these men humble themselves before those who knew them best.

“I believe the courage those men demonstrated in facing their demons, is the courage we all need to look hard at the way we treat each other, right across the continuum.

“It is essential that if we are to see the change in statistics that we need, that we all face up to ugly reality of violence within our communities.

“We have lost too many young New Zealanders at the hands of an adult, an adult more times than not on whom they depended.

“The ‘Every Child Counts’ campaign estimates that every year, child abuse and neglect generates a long term cost of around $2b,” Mrs Turia said.

“On every level, family violence costs this nation dearly.

“We must continue to speak strongly, about the importance of protecting and caring for our children in ways which are loving, nurturing and positive.

“The use of physical force as a means of discipline has been outlawed, and I am pleased that the legislation exists to remind us all, that our children deserve to benefit from our highest expectations of a world without violence.”

Tariana Turia has responsibility for the Government’s response to addressing and reducing the impact of family violence.

ENDS

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