15 Oct 2012

MP questions why Ruatoki watchdog report still unpublished

7:26 pm on 15 October 2012

Waiariki MP Te Ururoa Flavell is questioning why the Independent Police Conduct Authority still hasn't released its report on the police raid in Ruatoki five years ago.

Monday marks the fifth year since the national police operation sparked by military-style camps in the Urewera national park.

The raids were carried out in several places including the eastern Bay of Plenty settlement of Ruatoki, Auckland and Wellington.

The Court of Appeal has yet to release its decision relating to appeals against conviction filed by four people who were convicted and sentenced.

Mr Flavell says he's lost for words as to why the IPCA still hasn't publicised a report about the raids, which was investigated by Justice Goddard.

He says she has since left the Authority and her role has been taken up by Justice Carruthers.

Mr Flavell is questioning why his constituents are still waiting for a report, which has already been completed by Justice Goddard.

In response, the Authority says it's considering several issues before the report is released - including legal appeals by those convicted following the raids.