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Survivors attending the national apology of Abuse in Care have either walked out or stood and turned their backs on apologies read out by Heads of Government Agencies. Speaking to Waatea host Matthew Tukaki, correspondents in both Auckland and at Parliament have said “tension and emotions” were rising with some “booing” and others “spitting in disgust”.
Apologies from Heads of Governmemt Agencies came ahead of the National apology from Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. The Minister leading the Governments response, Eria Stanford, previously said
“We know there is no apology that can ever reflect the severity of harm that was suffered. We remain committed to responding with respect and dignity.”
Of the estimated 655,000 children, young people and adults in care from 1950 to 2019, it is estimated that up to 256,000 were abused and neglected. During the inquiry period, 1950 to 1999 it is estimated around 510,000 people were in care and up to 200,000 were abused and neglected. The true number will never be fully known as records of the most vulnerable people in Aotearoa New Zealand were never created or were lost and, in some cases, destroyed.
From Commission Chair Coral Shaw “The report exposes an unthinkable national catastrophe, the abuse and neglect of innocent children, young people and adults. These institutions were responsible for their care and protection and instead caused unimaginable harm. This harm continues even today. We urge you to not look away. Although confronting, this report signals an opportunity to create change in New Zealand’s care system so that this can never be repeated.”
“We want you to know that we have heard you and believe you.” Said Commmissioner Andrew Eruiti
“Aotearoa New Zealand, now that you understand the horrors we have discovered, the abuse and neglect of a quarter of a million babies, children and adults, much of it severe, we ask you to consider how to put a stop to this ongoing neglect and abuse and put right the harm that has occurred now that we know we can no longer turn away.” Said Commissioner Paul Gibson
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