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Archived Press Releases 2007 6th December 2007

WHAT WOULD A ROYAL COMMISSION ACHIEVE: WATCHDOG

(6th December 2007)

The Royal Commission of Inquiry recommended by the Ombudsman is doomed to failure before it begins says a leading Justice Watchdog organization.

Ombudsman Mel Smith has released a report saying the criminal justice system is at serious risk and is suffering from a loss of public support; Mr. Smith has recommended a Royal Commission of Inquiry.

But Sensible Sentencing Trust Spokesman Garth McVicar believes any such Inquiry is doomed to failure – even before it begins.

The chances of having an independent inquiry in this Country are “absolutely zilch” said McVicar.

“This will be another preening exercise by a bunch of academics and bureaucrats huffing and puffing while they try to cover up the disaster they have created.”

“New Zealand is now reaping the rewards of a politically correct social experiment; violent criminals are being recycled and put back on the streets at alarming rates. Innocent people are being murdered by criminals on Bail or Parole, and no-one is held accountable.”

“The Ombudsman says the criminal justice system is at serious risk and suffering from a loss of public support. We say the justice system is morally and intellectually bankrupt – in fact it is corrupt” .

“How else can one describe a legal process that is blind and holds no-one accountable for the mayhem it is creating – that continues to deceive the public and put innocent lives at risk?”

Regards,

Garth McVicar
National Spokesperson,
Sensible Sentencing Trust.