Media Statement

Hon Roger McClay

Commissioner for Children 15 June 2001

"A Good Week for Children's Day"

Today is International Children's Day. Whilst New Zealand now has its own National Children's Day (28 October) it is good to acknowledge International Children's Day too.

This has been a more positive week than many for New Zealand children.

The late James Whakaruru would have turned seven this week had he lived. His short life and his violent death have however helped galvanise New Zealand's thinking about child issues.

The Department of Child, Youth and Family have announced an exciting initiative "New Directions", based upon the findings of the report written by that outstanding New Zealander Judge Mick Brown.

This has been New Zealand Parent Centres week, giving recognition to the importance of parenting and family.

The Office of the Commissioner for Children has been represented in New York this week for preparatory discussions to the September United Nations Special Session on Children.

It is good to address the issues of children and their total inclusion in our society.

Office of the Commissioner for Children Level 12, 86-90 Lambton Quay PO Box 5610 Lambton Quay WELLINGTON

phone: 4711 410 phone fax: 4711 418 fax

email: children@occ.org.nz email

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