Justice system

Press, 14 August 1989, Page 20

Justice system

Sir, —I cannot be led to any other conclusion than that M. J. Knowles (August 2) only read and consumed the information that supports his cause to promote an apartheid system in New Zealand. The diversion scheme was implemented not specifically for white New Zealanders but for minor and first-time offenders. The 90 per cent Caucasians diverted, compared with a “smattering” of Maori, Samoan, Pacific Islanders, shows a close resemblance to the spread of these different races through our community. Statistically, it is more or less how it should appear. If the records showed 90 per cent Maori, Samoan, Pacific Islanders diverted I am positive M. J. Knowles would have complained that the white justice system was picking on our native people. Being involved in the process that deals with shoplifters apprehended, I can add, with some authority, that the percentage of white first-time offenders may be higher, as 80 per cent of Maori, Samoan and Pacific Islanders apprehended by stores are, in fact, second, third, or fourth-time offenders and, therefore, are not eligible for the diversion scheme—Yours, etc., D. S. IRVING. August 5, 1989.