June 21, 2023
Allegations of inappropriate sexual behaviour at Oranga Tamariki facilities investigated
Wellington:
Allegations of “inappropriate sexual behaviour” have surfaced against two staff members of Oranga Tamariki.
At a press conference in Wellington, Oranga Tamariki chief executive Chappie Te Kani said police were investigating, and the two staff members had been removed from the youth justice residences. He said he was told of the allegations this week.
Te Kani said he was aware of five children who had been subjected to sexual behaviour from Oranga Tamariki staff working in youth justice and care and protection residences.
He said these were separate incidents, at two different residences within the last year.
Ex-police commissioner Mike Bush will take over management of its youth residences and he will also lead a rapid review across all residences including Oranga Tamariki community-based homes. Mike Bush will be assisted by Shannon Pakura, former Chief Social Worker and currently a member of the Government Ministerial Advisory Board to the Minister for Children. The Bush review commences Friday and is expected to be completed in two months.
MIke Bush says he expects whānau of the tamariki and rangatahi at the residences to be consulted in the process.
The full kōrero of the press conference is attached and waateanews.com will bring further details.