MSD defending 155 complaints

Just announced, the Ministry of Social Development is setting up a unit separate from CYF to deal with historic complaints of which there are 155 pertaining to the past 66 years. 66 years ago NZ was in the middle of WW11! 66 years ago CYF didn't exist so some of these cases must be against the Education Department through its Child Welfare Division.

“I give a personal commitment that the Ministry will own its mistakes. We will do our very best to act in the interests of these claimants and do whatever we can to put things right,” said Peter Hughes.

(How does it own mistakes that weren't its?)

“It is also important to recognise that the claims seek significant amounts of taxpayer money and the public expect that any compensation that is paid is done so on the basis of good evidence that supports the claim.

(Funny how he never reminds us it's taxpayer money when it comes to dishing out benefits.)

“Some of these allegations are against people with long careers in social work, who have made a positive difference for many children and young people. They vigorously deny the allegations. They have a right to respond to any allegations and defend their reputations. And the Ministry supports them to do so."

(Who would want to be a social worker these days?)

“The vast majority of the claims relate to former staff. For the thirteen staff still employed by the Ministry, thorough processes are in place to protect everyone’s interests."

Is this the result of the CYFSWATCH site? Does anybody know?

Update; Make that 156. NewstalkZB has just reported the 11 month old baby girl who drowned in a bucket of water today was in CYF care.