WellingtoncTypeface:> The New Zealand government on Tuesday formally apologized to those who were abused in the care of state and faith-based institutions.
A Royal Commission found an estimated more than 200,000 New Zealanders were abused in state and faith-based care between the years of 1950 and 1999.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon delivered the apology in parliament. "This is a significant and sorrowful day in New Zealand,” he said.
"Today, I am apologizing on behalf of the government to everyone who suffered abuse, harm and neglect while in care.
"I am sorry you were not believed when you came forward to report your abuse. I am sorry many bystanders - staff, volunteers and carers - turned a blind eye and failed to stop or report abuse.” He said many abusers were not made to face justice which meant other people experienced abuse that could have been prevented. (DPA)