I am sure that most of you, like me, are shocked at the report we have just received from the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA) that has conducted a wide-ranging and comprehensive review on the activities and attitudes of the former Police executive. In response, the Government is acting decisively to install the strongest statutory oversight mechanism available to it – an Inspector-General of Police.
Police Minister Mark Mitchell says he expects Police to uphold the highest levels of integrity, transparency and accountability.
As a former Minister of Police, I agree with him wholeheartedly.
As you may know the IPCA report highlights significant flaws in the decision making, judgement and actions of a group of individuals, including those at the top of the previous Police executive Andrew Coster and Jevon McSkimming. Their actions have raised serious concerns about integrity and culture within the executive group they led.
These people have blatantly ignored a woman who has been let down by their coverup and manipulation of the review system.
The upshot of the IPCA report is that it has raised questions around whether there is sufficient independent oversight of the Police to prevent these issues happening again.
It also raises questions about probity checking of the suitability of Jevon McSkimming whose activities are at the centre of this issue, by the Public Service Commission (PSC) when McSkimming was appointed Deputy Police Commissioner in 2023.
His abhorrent behaviour was picked up during the Police Commissioner recruitment process in 2024 when he was a candidate. His history was revealed and he was suspended and then resigned.
Many New Zealanders will understandably have questions around how McSkimming was able to be considered for roles at the highest level of Police given what has come to light. As the Minister of the PSC, I can tell you that the PSC is taking these concerns very seriously.
As a consequence of their report, the IPCA has made 13 recommendations for Police and a further two for the Government regarding better Police oversight. All have been accepted by the Government and the Police as we must be able to have confidence in our Police.
In particular, appointing an Inspector-General of Police is the most effective way to strengthen oversight to the most robust level available to the Government and the people of New Zealand.
As well, the Public Service Commission has moved to strengthen its recruiting processes by proactively conducting an independent review on the reference and probity checks undertaken on McSkimming in 2022-2023 prior to his appointment as Deputy Police Commissioner.
Hon Mark Mitchell says and I strongly agree, that it is important to emphasise the report findings should not be seen as a reflection on our police service as a whole.
There are more than 15,000 police officers nationwide who serve and protect our communities with distinction and bravery. It is imperative New Zealanders have trust and confidence in the Police as the Government continues to do.
