Chief Ombudsman, Peter Boshier has launched a dedicated web page to highlight his new disability advisory panel Te Rōpū Kaiārahi Hauātanga.
The panel of nine advisors informs the Chief Ombudsman in his work in the area of disability rights.
Each panel member brings their lived experience and expertise to this mahi and will help the Ombudsman make decisions that align with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, Mr Boshier said in a statement.
He said the launch of the dedicated web page on the Ombudsman NZ website signifies the importance of the disability community to the Ombudsman’s office and the need to ensure that everything it does has the input and advice of all people it serves.
The website is part of the Office’s work to increase its profile within the disability community to ensure Tuia kia Ōrite – Fairness for All, is truly an inclusive concept.
The members are:
- Dr Jonathan Godfrey ONZM (pictured), Senior Lecturer School of Fundamental Sciences Massey University | National President Blind Citizens NZ Sam Fitness, Youth Member / Student;
- Lara Draper, General Manager for Adult and Senior Services at Deaf Aotearoa;
- Tania Kingi, Kairangahau at Te Roopu Waiora;
- Leo McIntyre, Chairman Balance Aotearoa;
- Maurice Priestley, Board Member CCS Disability Action;
- Mary Schnackenberg, Director AI Comms;
- Natasha Swann, Youth Member / Member of Ngā Rōpu o Manaaki Tāngata (MTK);
- Pelenakeke Brown, Independent Artist.
For more information, including a video interview with panel members, visit Te Rōpū Kaiārahi Hauātanga page.
