Govt rejects mandatory reporting of child abuse

3:30 PM

The Government has firmly rejected the idea of mandatory reporting of child abuse and is unlikely to be represented at a non-partisan conference on the issue.

National has organised the October meeting, which will be chaired by Children's Commissioner Roger McClay.

The Government has thrown cold water on the proposal, however.

Acting Social Services Minister Ruth Dyson says the Government cannot see it working.

She claims it would be too risky to rely on someone's word to uncover abuse.

Ruth Dyson says clear procedures such as social worker visits need to be in place, so relevant authorities can act on child abuse alerts.

-IRN