The idea of a NZDF watchdog came out of the Operation Burnham inquiry. File image. Photo: NZDF / Supplied
Legislation establishing an independent watchdog for the New Zealand Defence Force has been introduced to Parliament.
The creation of Inspector-General of Defence was one recommendation that came out of the Operation Burnham Inquiry.
That identified significant shortcomings in the way the defence force dealt with allegations of civilian casualties, resulting in a series of incorrect statements in briefings to ministers and the public between 2010 and 2017.
The inquiry did find a child was killed during Operation Burnham in Afghanistan in 2010, but the operation that led to her death was justified under international law.
Four other people were also killed, but the government inquiry could not determine if they were civilians or insurgents.
Defence Minister Peeni Henare. Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone
Defence Minister Peeni Henare said anyone would be able to raise concerns of potential wrongdoing and the bill would ensure the office would have full discretion over whether to act on any allegations.
The idea is to have an office providing independent oversight and acting to improve accountability, similar to the role played by the existing Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security.