Multi-millionaire sets up violence inquiry

Businessman Owen Glenn. Photo / Dean Purcell.

Multi-millionaire Owen Glenn says he will launch an independent inquiry to establish why domestic violence and child abuse remain such major issues in New Zealand.

"The Glenn Inquiry'' will be funded through the $80 million Mr Glenn pledged for his foundation in July to fight child abuse in New Zealand.

He said while the Government believes it is doing enough, he is alarmed at the growing statistics that show that there has not yet been any real change.

"This independent inquiry will not be limited to examining the problem and making recommendations for others to consider _ it will produce an evidence-based blueprint for the future, a model that, if adopted, could set New Zealand as a world leader in addressing child abuse and domestic violence.''

An inquiry panel of three or four people will be appointed, with former Ministry of Social Development family violence programme director Ruth Herbert appointed director.
Former Auckland mayor and Governor-General Dame Catherine Tizard has agreed to be the its patron.

"We cannot afford for these issues to be treated as political footballs with action depending on the priorities of the party or parties that are in Government at any one time,'' Dame Catherine said.

"Owen Glenn is calling for all people, including political parties to put aside party politics and unite on this task _ to work collaboratively and commit to a long term sustained and integrated response irrespective of which parties are in power at any particular time.''