NATIONAL COLLECTIVE of
INDEPENDENT WOMEN’S REFUGES

MEDIA RELEASE – 10 JULY 2008

Veitch Police Investigation Vital

Women’s Refuge says it’s completely appropriate that police have begun an investigation into the assault by Tony Veitch on his former partner Kristin Dunne-Powell.

The Chief Executive Heather Henare says the Government has identified domestic violence as a major priority for its agencies, and it is vital people see this case being treated seriously.

Ms Henare says the claims about the nature of the assault are extremely serious, and Tony Veitch has refused to address the specifics of what he did to his partner.

“While he did say he was sorry, there were also a lot of things he didn’t say and many questions that remain unanswered.”

“He really only fronted up when he was boxed into a corner and his initial actions in covering up what he did really show that he has very poor judgement and a lack of ownership for what he did.”

“People need to see that he is not treated differently from any other man who’s been involved in a serious case of assault, and the police investigation needs to be very thorough.”

Ms Henare says as well as the assault itself, police need to look into what type of pressure and coercion may have been placed on Ms Dunne-Belle not to lay a complaint.

“TVNZ and the Radio Network also need to make sure they take into account the public revulsion over this sort of behaviour and the type of presenters they want fronting their shows when they make their decisions about Tony Veitch’s employment.”

“It’s also a very timely reminder that all employers need to make sure they are aware of the programmes available for both staff experiencing domestic violence and those perpetrating it, and that they make sure workers needing help get it.”

ENDS

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