35268 (2026). Ingrid Leary to the Minister for Mental Health

35268 (2026). Ingrid Leary to the Minister for Mental Health: Is the Minister concerned that the Ministry of Health is effectively investigating Wakai Hospital Ward 10A itself, on a matter that the Ombudsman has said probably involves torture; if not, how can he be satisfied that the investigation is independent and seen to be independent?

Hon Matt Doocey: No. The Inquiry has been commissioned under section 101(2) of the Intellectual Disability (Compulsory Care and Rehabilitation) Act and has the same powers and authority to summon witnesses and receive evidence as a Commission of Inquiry under the Commissions of Inquiry Act 1908. The Inquiry will be led by a district inspector from a different part of the country. District inspectors are statutory officers who operate independently from the Ministry of Health.