Tova podcast: Extended interview with police minister as police say Government has ‘destroyed morale’

Thursday, 25 July 2024

Tova O’Brien is Stuff’s Chief Political Correspondent and host of the political podcast, Tova. Listen to the latest episode, Money, morale and mobsters, here.

This week on the Tova Podcast from Stuff, an extended interview with Police Minister Mark Mitchell.

We talk about repairing bridges post-pay breakdown, whether cops are paid enough, gang numbers, the new gang unit, that aspirational extra 500 police promise the Government made, the decision that police will shift away from mental health and family harm callouts and the risk that could pose to people’s safety and even lives.

Before that, though, the Royal Commission’s report into abuse in care.

Neil Harding is a survivor of abuse at Dilworth School in Auckland. He was just 11 years old.

Neil has been a strong advocate for survivors and victims at Dilworth, talking openly about his experiences and what needs to happen to ensure justice and safeguard future generations.

He was among the thousands of people who gave evidence to the Royal Commission. Tova has spoken to him several times over the years and wanted to see how he was feeling on the day of the report’s release.

Warning: The interview with Neil Harding - by necessity - covers child sexual abuse. If you, or anyone who might be listening to the podcast, might find that confronting or distressing, you may choose to skip straight to the Police Minister. You can access mental health support 24/7 by texting or calling 1737.