Calls for complaints process

• Published date: 25 May 2023
• Publication title: Southland Express

The draft remit, presented by Cr Alex Crackett during Tuesday’s council meeting, ‘‘requests an investigation into the creation of an LGNZ [Local Government New Zealand] independent national process to handle complaints, ensuring fairness, protection and accountability in local government’’

It noted recent events at the Gore District Council, Invercargill City Council’s Department of Internal Affairs investigation, allegations of sexism, sexual harassment, general relationship breakdowns and last-term issues in Tauranga, Wellington and Dunedin for context.

The background of the remit states there is an absence of a national standardised and independent process for handling complaints and escalating issues, and councils are currently handling their own problems on an ad-hoc basis, leaving many unanswered and individuals hesitant to come forward.

Cr Crackett said she was proud of the council for bringing the remit to the table in advance of the LGNZ annual meeting.

‘‘It’s really clear for Invercargill City Council that we’re all committed to helping to assist the entire national network raise standards of behaviour.

‘‘It’s not just a reflection on us or historical items, it’s actually protecting and safeguarding young elected members, and all elected members, across the network for future purpose,’’ Cr...