Waiariki

"Does the Parole Board have any safeguards to ensure that any untested allegations are not unfairly relied on in situations where a complainant or paroled offender is unable to attend a recall hearing for a paroled offender, if so, what are these safeguards?"

Reply: I am advised that as required by the Parole Act 2002, every person subject to a recall application is given the opportunity to either appear before the New Zealand Parole Board (Parole Board) to state their case, or to make written submissions. Respondents are also entitled to be represented by counsel. Section 65(4) provides that the Parole Board may determine a recall application without hearing from any person orally, unless the respondent has indicated they wish to appear in person, or the P…

"Does the Department rely on psychological risk assessments that are expressly conditional on allegations being true, and if so, how is the reliability of those underlying allegations assessed?"

Reply: I am advised that psychological risk assessment reports prepared by Corrections’ psychologists relate to individuals who have been convicted. In forming their risk opinions, psychologists may consider a range of information beyond the Judge’s Sentencing Notes and Summary of Facts, including self-report, incidents and misconducts, and disclosures from whānau or health services (where consent is provided). The weight given to each source varies and must be defensible. Psychological risk opinions a…

"Has the Department identified any issues with missing or incomplete historical files relating to psychological assessments or recall decisions of a paroled offender?"

Reply: I am assured, and it is my expectation, that Corrections maintains relevant records, including psychological assessments and recall decisions, in accordance with its record-keeping obligations.

"What safeguards, if any, exist to ensure that information provided to the Parole Board is accurate and complete to support recall hearings?"

Reply: I am advised that Corrections has processes in place to support the accuracy and completeness of information provided to the New Zealand Parole Board. These include: • preparing reports using structured templates and guidance • reviewing information against case records and relevant sources • internal quality assurance and management oversight • providing supporting documents where available. I am further assured that where new or updated information becomes available, it is provided to the Paro…

"Does the Department of Corrections ever rely on independent allegations made by third parties when applying to the Parole Board to have a paroled offender recalled, if so, does the Department verify these allegations and what steps are required to verify?"

Reply: I am advised that Corrections may consider third party allegations when assessing risk or compliance. However, staff will assess the source, ensure corroboration and consistency with other information, and the seriousness of the risk. Where there are credible public safety concerns, a precautionary approach may be taken even if verification is ongoing.