Christie's mum 'disgusted' by Bail Act amendment delay

Brian Marceau (L) and Tracey Marceau. Photo / Sarah Ivey

The mother of slain teenager Christie Marceau has appealed to Justice Minister Judith Collins expressing disgust over the length of time it has taken to amend the Bail Act.

Christie, 18, was killed in her North Shore home in November 2011 by a teenager who was on bail. Akshay Chand, then 18, was facing charges after kidnapping and assaulting Christie two months earlier.

After her violent death, her parents, Tracey and Brian, launched the Christie's Law campaign, demanding tougher bail laws and more accountability for judges.

The campaign coincided with the Government's announcement that the Bail Act would be amended, making it harder for people charged with serious violent and sexual crimes to get bail.

On Mother's Day Mrs Marceau wrote to Ms Collins, saying she was disappointed the Government was not acting faster.

"The point of this letter is to express my disgust in the long delay in bringing about changes to the Bail Act. This is an extremely important law change and positive change will make the difference to many, many Kiwi families," Mrs Marceau wrote.

"Why the delay when other issues can be pushed through? Are the lives of New Zealanders not important to this Government?

"Christie's Law isn't asking for the impossible. It is in your hands to be able to provide New Zealanders with the safety they are entitled to."

Last night, Ms Collins said she wanted to make it very clear that strengthening bail laws was an absolute priority.

"The Bail Amendment Bill has completed the select committee process and is currently awaiting its second reading in Parliament as a very high priority bill," she said.