"CJP has helped me gain so many new skills. My research and writing skills have improved and I have gained an insight into how the law-making process in New Zealand works." Hear from Paddy below: After attending the CJP launch early this year, I was convinced that the Law Reform team was the perfect place for me. I have a keen interest in politics and the law-making process, so the Research and Submissions sub-group seemed like the ideal place for me to get started. In my opinion the key draw-card of the Research and Submissions group is the opportunity to submit to Select Committee. We are so privileged to live in a country like New Zealand where we have the ability to speak directly to the lawmakers and influence their decision-making process. The highlight of my year was being part of the written submission regarding the Domestic Violence – Victim’s Protection Bill. The Bill would provide domestic violence victims with up to 10 days paid leave. I believe this is a practical, common sense way to be able to get victims back on their feet. The paid leave would assist victims to relocate, help with court-costs, and provide victims with the time to organise counselling appointments or alternative schooling for children involved.
The oral submission was the best part. I sat with my CJP colleagues, in front of a room of politicians and we spoke about our views on the Bill itself. After we spoke, the politicians questioned us on a few of the contentious issues, to which we replied with our thoughts. This experience was so empowering. It made me feel like I could make a difference and directly influence the law-making process. CJP has helped me gain so many new skills. My research and writing skills have improved and I have gained an insight into how the law-making process in New Zealand works. I have also loved working in a team and I’ve gained some great new friends. I also have to mention that MP Jan Logie (the Domestic Violence Bill’s sponsor) now follows me on Instagram! I would like to thank my amazing team leaders, Josiah and Vivian, for all of their tireless work that they put into running the Law Reform team. Finally, I would like to encourage anyone interested to get involved in CJP. The work I’ve done in the Law Reform team has been so rewarding and it is a wonderful place to learn more about important issues facing New Zealanders today. Check out Law Reform's other submissions to Parliament here!
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
About this Feed:The Wellington Community Justice Project News Feed is maintained by our Secretary, Olivia Hyland. Categories
All
Archives
October 2017
|
© Wellington Justice Community Project Incorporated 2019