The Royal Commission into Abuse in Care has postponed its Māori investigation public hearing that was due to start early next month.
Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei marae Photo: supplied by Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei
It was due to take place at Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Marae in Tāmaki Makaurau from September 6th and last two-weeks.
Royal Commission Chair, Judge Coral Shaw said the health, safety and wellbeing of survivors, witnesses, whānau, attendees and staff are the most important factors in the decision.
"The uncertainty around the Covid-19 Delta variant and the current Alert Level restrictions mean postponing the hearing is the best and safest option.''
"While it is too early for us to provide a new hearing date, we give our commitment it will be held as soon as the situation allows. The voices and experiences of Māori survivors of abuse in care are critical to the Royal Commission of Inquiry's work."
Judge Shaw said planning for the Māori hearing was well advanced before the alert level restrictions were implemented. This planning will continue throughout the lockdown period so that a hearing can be held as soon as possible after the restrictions are lifted.
She urged survivors that have any questions about the postponement to reach out to the Abuse in Care Royal Commission of Inquiry.