UNICEF NZ notes that it is almost two years since the legislation giving children protection from assault in all situations was passed by an overwhelming majority of Parliament (Crimes (substituted Section 59) Act ). The legislation included provision for a review of the Act to assess how it is being applied. The review, to be conducted later this year, will consider the impact of the legislation based on evidence gathered from a range of authoritative sources.

UNICEF NZ firmly supports the legislation and is concerned that the referendum (to be held at the end of next month by postal ballot) is attempting to overturn a law that has shown to be working well in children’s interests. Police reports to date show that the law is being applied fairly and with discretion and parents have not been persecuted for minor infringements.

UNICEF NZ is a member of the YESVote Coalition formed to urge supporters of the law to return their ballot papers after ticking the YES option to the question 'Should a smack, as a part of good parental correction, be a criminal offence in New Zealand?'

“While the question is somewhat perplexing and could be designed to confuse supporters of child protection, we believe that a YES vote will give a strong message to politicians, and the people of New Zealand, that children deserve the same protection from assault as any other citizen” said Dennis McKinlay, Executive Director of UNICEF NZ

“Hitting children can not be equated with good parental correction” said Dennis McKinlay. “I am proud that UNICEF has joined with a number of respected child focused organisations to encourage constructive and non-violent discipline”.

Dennis McKinlay says research shows that already support for the law in New Zealand has grown and more parents are asking for and receiving information and advice about parenting without hitting.

“It is regretful that we are spending $10m to conduct this referendum on a confusing question. What we need is intelligent debate, informed by credible evidence” said Mr McKinlay “That amount of money could well be used for support and education to make a real difference by contributing to better parenting and safer families”. END

Contact:

Dennis McKinlay
Executive Director
UNICEF NZ
Phone 04 496 9611; 021 396966
Or
Barbara Lambourn
National Advocacy Manager
UNICEF NZ
Phone 04 8159388: 029 9700853