Mandatory Drug Testing for Staff Working with Children in New Zealand
To the Honourable Members of Parliament and Relevant Authorities,
We, the undersigned, urgently call for the implementation of mandatory drug testing for all individuals working with children in New Zealand. Recent experiences have highlighted a growing concern regarding substance abuse among staff entrusted with the care and supervision of children. Addiction in New Zealand has reached alarming levels, with drugs like methamphetamine (P) infiltrating even the most sensitive environments, such as parks, schools, and family-friendly establishments.
Our Story:
During a visit to Matakana Country Park, we were appalled by the behaviour of staff, including the manager of Action Ninja World. This individual, visibly under the influence of drugs, made inappropriate advances toward my husband and later sought illicit substances from him. Despite working with children in the park, she demonstrated shocking negligence, putting young lives at risk. Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident. We have seen reports of meth being distributed in food parcels and children being unknowingly exposed to dangerous substances in their homes and communities.
Why This Matters:
Children deserve to grow up in environments free from the dangers of substance abuse. Those entrusted with their care must be held to the highest standard of safety, professionalism, and responsibility. The effects of drug abuse are catastrophic, both in the short and long term:
• Immediate Dangers: Staff under the influence of drugs can neglect their duties, engage in reckless behavior, and pose direct harm to the children in their care. Erratic actions, lack of judgement, and compromised reflexes create unsafe situations for children, who rely on adults for supervision and protection.
• Long-term Effects on Children: Exposure to individuals abusing drugs can normalize dangerous behaviors. It also increases the likelihood of accidents or neglect, which could lead to trauma, physical injury, or worse. Children witnessing or becoming aware of drug use may face emotional and psychological challenges, potentially affecting their trust in authority figures and their overall sense of security.
• Impact on the Broader Community: Drug addiction has already caused devastation in many communities across New Zealand. Without intervention, the presence of drug-addicted staff in environments meant to nurture and educate children could have lasting consequences on future generations.
Our Request:
We propose that the New Zealand government introduce legislation to enforce mandatory and regular drug testing for all individuals working with children. This includes, but is not limited to, staff in childcare centers, schools, recreational facilities, and family-focused parks. By ensuring that those responsible for our children are not under the influence of drugs or alcohol, we can create safer spaces for children to learn, grow, and thrive.
We believe that every child in New Zealand deserves the best possible care, and this cannot be achieved unless staff are held to the highest standards of safety and accountability.
Please sign this petition to help protect the children of New Zealand and ensure their well-being is prioritized.