Compensation for Mr Sushames

Press, Volume CXI, Issue 32524, 6 February 1971, Page 16

Compensation for Mr Sushames

(New Zealand Press Association) WELLINGTON, February 5. The Crimes Compensation Tribunal today ordered that the sum of $3015 be paid to the estate of Anthony Shadrack Sushames, and $39.50 a week be paid to Mr Sushames until 1976.

Mr Sushames, a Salvation Army worker, suffered injuries when he went to the aid of a brawl victim at Newtown in December, 1969. He is now confined to hospital. Compensation includes $lOOO for pain and suffering, $5O for medical expenses and reports, $lOO for costs and $1865.50 pecuniary loss because of incapacity to work In its decision today, the tribunal ordered that the sum of $39.50 a week be paid to Mr Sushames until December 19, 1975. This figure includes $3 a week for his wife, and $4.50 to his three children The chairman of the tribunal (Mr R. D. Jamieson) said in the decision that even today Mr Sushames required constant care and vigilance and was unable to make any effort on his own behalf.

"It is abundantly clear that there is no prospect whatever that the victim will evet

be able to live a normal life or engage in employment.” The tribunal was satisfied that Mr Sushames was not guilty of any conduct which contributed directly or indirectly to his injuries, but was engaged in an act of mercy, consistent with his occupation when struck. The tribunal was satisfied Mr Sushames had received no payment from the offender, nor any payments under the Social Security Act, 1954, or the Workers’ Compensation Act, 1956.