26 March 2019

Royal Commission not an excuse to ignore security concerns

The Royal Commission of Inquiry into the Christchurch terror attacks must not be used as an excuse to ignore concerns about our security and intelligence systems right now, Leader of the Opposition Simon Bridges says.

“The Prime Minister told media this morning that questions to date have been around where resourcing was focussed.

“The reality is that our security risk is now higher and answers are needed from the Prime Minister about whether our Security and Intelligence agencies have the capability to detect terrorist and extremist behaviour right now.

“We support urgent firearms reforms, but we also believe there should be action now into whether the capabilities of our security and intelligence services are fit for purpose.

“I’ve already been clear that our cyber security systems and tools need to be enhanced if we want to keep up with other countries and terrorist organisations and be serious about preventing further attacks.

“Those carrying out these roles need to be able to tell us frankly whether they have the ability to protect New Zealanders at home and overseas as we expect them to.

“New Zealanders need to be safe and cannot wait for the completion of a Royal Commission of Inquiry, which is likely to take years.”

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