Current Progress
Since launching on 1 July 2022, we have had 219 people register their interest with the Inquiry. This has included 143 old boy survivors, and 76 individuals (made up of whānau, former staff or former board members). So far, our team has held interviews with 90 people, the vast majority, old boy survivors. We have a further 18 interviews booked through to the end of October and are moving quickly to complete all survivor interviews as soon as possible. Our focus is also turning to interviews with known offenders, staff, board members, and other individuals of interest. In putting our processes in place, it has been important to us to put old boy survivors and their wellness first, and take the time and care required to support them through their involvement in the Inquiry.
We have been encouraged by the number of those that have come forward but have also been saddened and moved by the many moving and compelling accounts we have received so far.
In addition to our work with people, we have sought, received, and are reviewing a large number of documents relevant to our terms of reference and have been monitoring evidence submitted to the Abuse in Care Royal Commission.
The significant number of registrations has meant adding to the Inquiry's resources to get through the work required to complete our report. As a result, we have significantly increased our staff numbers, and are using technology to assist in analysing the information we have received.
Report Extension
Regrettably because of these factors the Inquiry has had to seek an extension of its reporting date from December 2022 into next year. We are now working towards a reporting date of May 31, 2023 with a final date, if that proves unattainable, of August 31, 2023. We can assure you we are working as quickly and comprehensively as possible. We will update you again on progress in the first quarter of next year.
Impact on redress
This will not impact on old boys who have elected not to register with the Inquiry but only with the Redress Programme. For those Old Boys registered with the Inquiry and the Redress Programme, they will still be able to submit redress claims for determination before we deliver our report. We are committed to working together with the Redress programme to ensure this occurs. However, we acknowledge that for those who are waiting for the report before filing for redress, this creates a further delay for them. We are mindful of this and note the additional strain this places on them.
Thank you
We also take this opportunity to thank all those that have registered with the Inquiry. We particularly thank old boy survivors and acknowledge the strength and courage so many have shown in their interactions with us. We remind you that you can access the Inquiry’s wellness team for support through the Inquiry process and that you can register with the Dilworth Listening Service for access to a psychologist for longer-term support without charge to you.
If you have any questions regarding this announcement, please email [email protected].
Yours sincerely
Dame Silvia Cartwright
Frances Joychild KC