13 January 2002

New Epidemic Of False Allegations An Absolute Certainty

"A new epidemic of false allegations of sexual abuse is an absolute certainty", Darryl Ward, spokesperson for FARE, said today. He was referring to ACC's decision to pay lump-sum compensation payments for unproven allegations of sexual abuse.

"During the 1990's when a witch-hunt mentality prevailed amongst those working in the abuse industry, many people were convinced that they had been victims of sexual abuse due to the now discredited false (recovered) memory syndrome. Peter Ellis's conviction took place at the height of this hysteria. Many others knowingly made false allegations to gain leverage in acrimonious family court disputes prior to malicious accusations of domestic violence becoming the weapon of choice."

"Whilst we would never deny that there are genuine victims of abuse, neither can it be denied that there exist those who have invented their abuse for momentary gain. Their despicable actions are an affront to their victims, the families they destroy and to all genuine victims of abuse."

"Furthermore, the fact that a Christchurch law firm has entered the fray by offering to pursue such claims for a percentage contingency is indicative of how much of a gravy train the abuse industry has become".

"We call on the Government to reverse this decision before countless more families are destroyed in the name of greed", concluded Ward.

ENDS

Inquires - Darryl Ward 025 230 1667

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