Government confirms details of healthcare abuse, national apology

The government has confirmed further details of the national apology to survivors of abuse in care.

“On November 12, Parliament will apologize on behalf of the nation for the state’s failures in many governments. After a mihi whakatau, proceedings begin mid-morning with voices from survivors and apologies from the Chief Executives of some government agencies.

“The Prime Minister will deliver the national apology in the House of Representatives at 11:30 am. This will be followed by a statement from the Leader of the Opposition,” said Chief Minister of Coordination Erica Stanford.

The proceedings will be streamed online and to simultaneous events at the Due Drop Events Center in Auckland, Shed 6 in Wellington and Christchurch Town Hall. The apology will also be shown on Parliament TV.

“About 1,200 survivors, support people and other guests are expected to attend events across the country. Everyone who has expressed interest has received an invitation to participate. The government will be represented at all events, and I understand that other political parties will do the same. We also support the survivor-led event at Pipitea Marae in Wellington.

“This will be a very important day for survivors and that is why the government is continuously taking a trauma-informed approach. We have structured the morning so that survivors feel supported to participate in what is most meaningful to them.”

Wellbeing support will also be available at each location. This includes mental health nurses, Rongoā Māori providers, counselors, social workers and abuse in specialist care.

“The Government will also provide more detail on its response to the Royal Commission’s final report. We know that no apology can ever reflect the severity of the harm suffered. We remain committed to responding with respect and dignity,” said Ms. Stanford.

“I would like to thank the Labor Party, Green Party and Te Pāti Māori for their support of the arrangements for this important event.”