Progress update - June

Along with reviewing existing information, and gearing up for key engagements, a focus for the Royal Commission during May has been on how the overall Inquiry will work.

This has included publishing guidance and information on how the Inquiry will be conducted, including on meeting procedures, for example, which will be of interest to people and communities who are likely to meet with us.

Other guidance published includes a procedural minute – ‘Interim non-publication: evidence and submissions received,’ and guidance on Official Information Act processes for agencies, says Commission Chair, Professor Tony Blakely.

“As the Inquiry progresses, we expect to publish a range of decision-making documents setting out our approach to various procedural matters.”

A new appointment has also been confirmed with Dr Justine Cornwall taking up the position of Inquiry Executive Director, starting with the Commission in early July.

Justine was previously General Manager in the policy group at the Ministry of Social Development, and has extensive experience as a senior leader, including as the Director of the establishment group for Whaikaha, the newly established Ministry of Disabled People.

The appointment comes at a time when critical establishment work has been completed, and the Commission is expanding its focus, says Professor Blakely.

“We welcome the appointment of Justine to the role of Executive Director. Her leadership experience and knowledge of the social sector will be a really valuable asset for this next stage of our Inquiry.”
Professor Blakely also acknowledged the important contribution of Anita West, the departing Executive Director, who has stepped down from the role due to a change in personal circumstances.

“Anita has worked tirelessly to establish the Inquiry and has ensured we’ve made great progress to this point. Her considerable contribution ensures we’re well placed for this important next stage of the Royal Commission, and we’ll be very sorry to lose her.”

We’ll shortly be providing updates via an Inquiry newsletter. If you’d like to receive these updates, you can sign up for them here. You can also view all of our recently published guidance information in the ‘How we will work’ section.