Mayor of Dunedin, Jules Radich says a new multi-agency working group will be dedicated to changing the culture of behaviour and improving safety at Dunedin’s Bus Hub following last week’s fatal stabbing of a 16-year-old boy at the bus stop.
Mr Radich and representatives from the Dunedin City Council, Otago Regional Council and Police met this morning and agreed to establish the new group.
“While our focus as a city needs to remain on supporting Enere’s whānau as they prepare to farewell their loved one, we also need to do what we can to ensure this sort of tragedy isn’t repeated,” the Mayor said.
He said the terms of reference for the group were now being drafted and will seek to ensure schools, bus users, and the wider community are all represented.
The group will aim to develop short, medium and long-term options that can be implemented to improve the culture at the Bus Hub, and will meet regularly.
“This is an important step focused on changing behaviour at the Bus Hub, to ensure it is a safe space for everyone to use,” said Mayor Radich.
“Last week’s terrible tragedy has sent shockwaves through our community, and we all need to come together to address the issues.”
Otago Regional Council Chair, Gretchen Robertson said public safety at the Bus Hub was a priority for all parties.
“This new group is exactly what we need to be doing – working together to tackle the safety issues there,” she said.
“We will be working with the DCC, Police and other parties to review the steps already taken, and any new initiatives that could help, over the coming days and weeks.
“It will also be important to look at how we can involve young people, school communities, and the wider community to help change behaviour at the hub.”
Meanwhile, an increased security presence will continue at the Bus Hub and Bus stop B will remain closed until further notice as a mark of respect to the victim.
“We acknowledge the outpouring of love and sympathy for the family and friends of the young person who tragically died and realise that an incident of this magnitude impacts public confidence. We are aware of issues at the hub and are working hard to support people with added security and presence,” said Chair Robertson.
Police Otago Coastal Area Commander Inspector Marty Gray says Police want to work with all parties to improve safety at the Bus Hub.
“We’re looking forward to having an active role in the group and helping ensure everyone can use the Bus Hub with confidence,” he said.
