New Zealand PM Says Sorry for Care Abuse Nightmares

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon apologized to thousands of abuse survivors during a packed Parliament session. The harmful events lasted seven decades, affecting many Māori and other vulnerable groups in care. He admitted past governments and current ones, including his own, are responsible. Luxon spoke of widespread abuse, torture, and neglect, especially in state-run institutions. The government plans to start a single redress system by 2025 to compensate victims, although the amount isn't clear yet.

Survivors and advocates complained about the apology, noting that the scale of the abuse isn't fully understood. Some were jeering when officials spoke. The inquiry made recommendations like seeking apologies from leaders, changing laws, and searching for unmarked graves. Luxon agreed public agencies should have done better for victims and their families. However, Luxon didn't promise job losses for past ministers denying abuse or address concerns about policies targeting Māori. Survivors like Fa’afete Taito stressed that actions, not just apologies, are crucial to healing and preventing future harm.

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