27 Mar 2013

Report finds Air Force treated family appropriately

10:11 pm on 27 March 2013

Wellington barrister Matthew McClelland has completed a summary of reports released in January to the families of the three men killed and to Sergeant Stevin Creeggan, who was injured.

The summary responds to concerns raised by Sergeant Creeggan's mother and father, including that they received treatment of a lesser quality because their son was a non-commissioned officer.

Mr McClelland found nothing to suggest rank discrimination.

The report has made recommendations relating to next of kin procedures, points of contact and general communication.

It says that despite the tragic circumstances, the Air Force showed it was prepared and able to manage such an incident.

It also found that little would be gained by further investigations given the time that had passed.

The Defence Force says it has already implemented some of the recommendations.

Chief of Air Force, Air Vice-Marshal Peter Stockwell, says the report states overall support provided was appropriate and responsive.