Questions over future of Glenn Inquiry

Questions remain over the future of the Glenn Inquiry after the withdrawal of key members in recent weeks. Resignations include:

• Director Ruth Herbert and Operations Director Jessica Trask
• Three of the four interview panel co-chairs: former human commissioner Rosslyn Noonan, former law commissioner Denese Henare and former law commissioner and Waitangi Tribunal member Joanne Morris
• Think Tank members Catriona MacLennan, Dr Rachel Simon-Kumar, Dr Nicola Gavey and Dr Huhana Hickey
• Contracted experts on domestic violence and child abuse Deborah Mackenzie, Deanne Littlejohn and Alex Port
• Sexual violence survivor advocate Louise Nicholas, who was liaising with survivors of sexual violence
• Mental health worker Debbie Hager, who was coordinating a three-day hearing for disabled people planned for next month.

Some Think Tank members have decided to continue; others are considering their position.

Owen Glenn has appointed a new Chief Executive and Board for the Inquiry, made up of five men and one woman. New Board Chair Bill Wilson signalled it "indicates a more corporate approach".

New Chief Executive Kirsten Rei comes from her position as interim head of one of the first multi-agency Children's Teams in Rotorua. She is a former private secretary to Government ministers Stephen Joyce and Tariana Turia.

New Board members are:

• Sir Owen Glenn
• Bill Wilson (Chair) – former lawyer, QC and Judge
• Tony Holt – former executive, OTS Logistics Group
• Dr Geoff Harley – Wellington tax lawyer
• Donna Grant – director, Warriors league board
• Greg Fortuin – former Race Relations Conciliator

Owen Glenn and Bill Wilson stated that the inquiry would continue.

The Board announced an “independent review” of how it handles information given to the inquiry following concerns being raised about safety. It will be conducted by Women's Refuge chief executive Heather Henare and Rethinking Crime and Punishment chief executive Kim Workman over the next few weeks.

Glenn Inquiry website