Internal Affairs Minister Tracy Martin has refused to express confidence in the leadership of the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care, after it was revealed a convicted child sex offender was involved.
Speaking in the Parliament, in response to National leader Simon Bridge's questions, she said she was dismayed after finding out a convicted paedophile was allowed to be involved in meetings.
Ms Martin said the inquiry was independent of government and she had no role in operational matters.
"The appointment of the survivor panel and the attendance at its meetings are very much operational matters. As minister, the issue of confidence, as set out in law, relates only to the conduct of the commissioners. I would say that today, that confidence has been shaken".
She tells Lisa Owen she is meeting with commission members on Wednesday for a 'please explain'. In the meantime she has sought urgent advice on what powers she has.
