Murray Deaker is to be congratulated for having the guts and gumption in hiring Tony Veitch as a panellist for his Sky TV show. It is the first time we've seen Veitch on television - aside from him being the subject of various news bulletins - since allegationssurfaced seven months ago that he assaulted former partner Kristin Dunne-Powell. By all accounts, Veitch handled himself well in his appearance.
The wheels of justice are turning so slowly in the Veitch matter that we are in a state of gridlock. It is a wonder his lawyers have not already moved to strike out the case. It is simply disgraceful that it will take more than two years before the case is heard - it is not fair on any of the protagonists, least of all Dunne-Powell and Veitch. And as a result, the latter's employment opportunities - especially in his field of expertise - are scarce.
The head of Jigsaw Family Services, Tau Huirama, was too quick to criticise Deaker's actions this week. Huirama, whose organisation represents 32 agencies working to end child abuse and family violence, said Veitch had yet to show any "real remorse" and shouldn't be afforded the "privilege of celebrity status on TV".
Thank goodness Taurima and his media adviser, Shona Geary, do not reside on the district court benches. They have found a man guilty before any specific details have been heard.
Of course, none of this is to understate the grave allegations against Veitch. But for now, he should be afforded the basic justice principle that he is innocent until proven guilty. He also deserves the chance to earn a living.
Deaker has been kind - and brave. It has been one of the few bright spots in this whole sordid saga.
