Source: Radio New Zealand
The inquiry would look into whether government agencies took all steps to ensure the safety and welfare of the children. Dean Purcell/New Zealand Herald via Getty Images
The family of Tom Phillips say they “welcome” a public inquiry into the handling of the case by authorities.
Phillips died following a shootout with police, when they were called to reports of a burglary in the early hours of 8 September, after 1358 days in the bush with his children.
Phillips shot a police officer several times during the shootout.
On Thursday, Attorney-General Judith Collins announced a public inquiry would be held into the disappearance of the Phillips children.
A spokesperson for the Phillips family released a statement to RNZ.
“We welcome any inquiry that helps ensure this never happens to another family ever again.”
Collins said the inquiry would look into whether government agencies took all practicable steps to ensure the safety and welfare of the Phillips children.
“The decision to establish a public inquiry reflects the significant public interest and concern for the children’s welfare over the almost four years they were missing.
“It is important that we establish the facts and determine whether agencies could take steps to prevent, or resolve similar situations more quickly and effectively in the future.”
The terms of reference had been developed with the privacy and welfare of the children in mind. The inquiry would therefore be conducted in private and without public hearings.
Collins said the inquiry must also respect the independence of the courts and would not include findings on judicial decisions.
The Honourable Justice Simon Moore, KC, has been appointed as the sole member of the inquiry.
The inquiry would deliver a final report with recommendations by 21 July 2026.
An injunction preventing the media from publishing certain details related to the investigation into Phillips remains in place.
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
