Law change needed for CYF, says Maharey

3.00pm

The Government intends changing the law so that parents and other people convicted of sex offences can be stopped from attending family group conferences.

Social Services Minister Steve Maharey said today a report into the way Child, Youth and Family (CYF) dealt with sex offenders had uncovered an "anomaly" which would have to be changed by legislation.

"This anomaly means youth justice co-ordinators do not have the power to exclude a parent or family member, including those convicted of sex offending, from attending family group conferences," he said.

"I have asked the Ministry of Social Development to advise on a change in legislation that will continue to hold parents accountable for youth offending while ensuring those who are convicted sex offenders can be excluded."

The report also found that "clarification and enhancement" was needed to achieve a consistent approach in the way convicted sex offenders were dealt with, and said work was under way.

Mr Maharey said that overall the department's policies were sound and legislation contained significant provisions to ensure the safe management of contact between children and their parent or family member who had abused them.

- NZPA

Shannon Pakura, Chief Social Worker, CYF:

Appendix: Action Plan

Herald Feature: Child Abuse