Govt Concludes Coordinated Response to March 15 Attacks, Ongoing Works Remain

The Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet has overseen the review of 44 recommendations from the inquiry.

The New Zealand Government has wrapped up its coordinated cross-government response to the Royal Commission of Inquiry into the Christchurch mosque attacks, according to Lead Coordination Minister Judith Collins. Reflecting on March 15, 2019, as one of New Zealand's darkest days, Collins emphasized that while the official response is concluding, the commitment to safety and security continues.

Collins noted that the Royal Commission's inquiry highlighted several critical issues related to safety and security. Over the past five years, efforts have been focused on addressing these concerns, with significant changes implemented by government agencies, particularly within the national security sector.

The Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet has overseen the review of 44 recommendations from the inquiry. Of these, 36 have been implemented or are integrated into ongoing work programs, while eight will not be pursued.

Key achievements from the response include:

The introduction of New Zealand's first National Security Strategy, Secure Together Tō Tātou Korowai Manaaki.

The creation of the Firearms Safety Authority.

The establishment of the Ministry for Ethnic Communities.

The public release of "Know the Signs," a guide for identifying signs of violent extremism.

The publication of New Zealand's first Security Threat Environment Report.

The launch of the Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism Strategic Fund for community-based initiatives.

The development of the Ethnic Communities Graduate Programme.

As the coordinated response concludes, Minister Matt Doocey will serve as the primary point of contact for the affected community, ensuring ongoing government support and connection.

Collins reaffirmed the Government's dedication to maintaining a safe and secure environment for all communities. The response summary and decisions on recommendations are available on the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMC) website.

To honor the 51 victims of the March 15 attacks, the Government will continue the annual broadcast of the Adhan (call to prayer) and is considering establishing a memorial. Collins also acknowledged the survivors, affected families, witnesses, and first responders, expressing gratitude for their courage, compassion, and contributions throughout the response.