May 15, 2015
MWWL challenges CYF review panel picks
The Maori Women's Welfare League wants Maori representation on an independent expert panel that is reviewing Child, Youth and Family.
League president Prue Kapua says more than half the children in the agency's care are Maori.
She says the terms of reference specifically require the panel to address how a new operating model will deliver better outcomes for Maori, yet there is no reflection of the need for expertise in tikanga Maori in the appointments made by the Minister.
The league has written to Minister Anne Tolley asking her to reconsider.
Ms Kapua says through their work in the community league branches and members have an intimate knowledge of the issues facing children, youth and whanau in their interactions with CYF and would be happy to identify an appropriate independent panel member.
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