Children / Life And Society

Advocates "underwhelmed" by report into Malachi Subecz's death

12:11 pm on 2 December 2022

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A child advocacy group is underwhelmed by an independent report into the death of Malachi Subecz, saying it is not aspirational and minimises the urgent call to action.

Dame Karen Poutasi released her findings yesterday on the failings of six agencies that made Malachi invisible - which led to his murder in November 2021.

There were 14 recommendations - the government has not taken up the key ones including - mandatory reporting of suspected child abuse for anyone tasked with their protection; and vetting proposed carers when a sole parent goes into prison.

Voyce - Whakarongo Mai advocates for children in care; its chief executive Tracie Shipton spoke to Māni Dunlop about the report and the way forward.