MPs to probe abuse, neglect of disabled

MPs will hold an inquiry into the neglect and abuse of people with disabilities - despite Health Minister Pete Hodgson's belief that such a probe is not needed.

A parliamentary committee inquiry was announced yesterday by social services select committee chairwoman Georgina Beyer.

The inquiry's terms of reference are to be released within a month, but committee member and National Party disability issues spokesman Paul Hutchison said it would examine, among other things, the adequacy of training and working conditions, and whether there was proper monitoring.

The inquiry will also look at whether the Government failed to take appropriate action over issues surrounding care provided by two organisations, Focus 2000 and Spectrum Care Trust.

Dr Hutchison, who sought the inquiry, said it had been prompted by concerns over Focus 2000, and evidence of wider problems in the sector.

Focus, the business arm of the Cerebral Palsy Society and one of Auckland's largest disabled care providers, was forced to repay money it received from the Health Ministry following financial audits.

The audits also contained allegations of unsafe conditions and medical mistreatment. Mr Hodgson ordered a review last month.

Dr Hutchison said Labour MPs on the committee had voted alongside National, United Future and the Greens to back the inquiry.

He said Mr Hodgson was in denial about the need for an inquiry.

"The problem is not just confined to Focus 2000.

"There continue to be widespread concerns about service provision within the disability services sector. Major problems with other providers will inevitably emerge.

"People within the sector itself are saying there are 'deep systemic problems'."

Dr Hutchison has worked with the sector to draft proposed terms of reference for the inquiry.

Providers in the spotlight

Spectrum Care Trust An independent review last year commissioned by the trust found 37 cases of alleged abuse and neglect.

Focus 2000 Currently under review, Focus was forced to repay money it received from the Health Ministry following financial audits.

The audits also contained allegations of unsafe conditions and medical mistreatment.