21 Feb 2018

Mishandling concerns spur review into Human Rights Commission

7:39 pm on 21 February 2018

The Justice Minister has announced a review of the culture and processes at the Human Rights Commission following concerns about the handling of sexual harassment allegations at the agency.

Andrew Little

Justice Minister Andrew Little announced the review. Photo: RNZ / Richard Tindiller

Andrew Little said it is vital New Zealanders have trust and confidence in the Commission as New Zealand's authority for dealing with complaints about sexual harassment and he is concerned by recent reported events.

The retired Employment Court Judge Coral Shaw has been appointed to lead the review, which is due to be completed by the end of April.

Chief Commissioner David Rutherford said the Commission has confidence that the matter was handled in accordance with its policies, but said if there is anything it could improve it wanted to know about it.

He said the commission looks forward to addressing any recommendations of the review.