By FRANCESCA MOLD
Allegations that Associate Social Services Minister Tariana Turia stifled the launch of a strategy for abused Maori children were played down by her senior minister Steve Maharey yesterday.
The National Party has accused Mrs Turia of trying to change the strategy because she was unhappy it accepted that some at-risk Maori children would have to be placed with strangers rather than their own extended family.
National MP Bob Simcock also suggested in Parliament yesterday that Mrs Turia had forced the cancellation of an official launch for the document, Te Pounamu.
A Child, Youth and Family Services spokesman confirmed the launch planned for late last year had been delayed because of a "range of discussions" between the department and ministers.
The document was released this week without the usual fanfare accompanying such documents, including a public launch.
It was put on the service's website and e-mailed to interested people.
Mr Simcock asked Mr Maharey in Parliament whether Mrs Turia had approached the department to influence the contents of Te Pounamu or stop it being published.
Mr Maharey said Mrs Turia was responsible for Maori policy in the social services area. "I certainly hope she has approached the department and worked with them on everything," he said.
He pointed out Mrs Turia had authorised the release of the document.
Mr Simcock asked whether comments by the service's manager of Maori strategy, Peter Douglas, that it was important staff were not making decisions because of pressure were related to Mrs Turia's interference in the Te Pounamu launch and her suggestions staff were racist because they did not place Maori children with family.
"No and no," replied Mr Maharey.
He said Mrs Turia had never asked for at-risk Maori children to be placed exclusively within Maori families.
Minister downplays Turia role
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