Commissioners will hear from three witnesses. Witness evidence summaries are outlined below.

After a witness speaks their full evidence, along with footage of them speaking, will be available for download.

The hearing is being live-streamed on the Abuse in Care website(external link). The link contains the full hearing schedule.

Hearing location: Fale o Samoa, 141 Bader Drive, Māngere, Auckland 2022

10.00am (approx.)

Antony Dalton

Antony Dalton is of Samoan, Jewish, German and Gypsy descent. As a child, he suffered an accident that left him with a catastrophic brain injury. Antony will speak about the abuse he experienced at school and residences from teachers and other pupils, and his confusion and frustration at the way he was treated. 

10.45am (approx.)

Rachael Umaga

Rachael Umaga is of Samoan descent. She will give evidence about her experiences as a patient in psychiatric units in Wellington. Rachael will describe the lack of care she received, the on-going practice of over-medicating patients, and her concerns about the current model of care in psychiatric units. Her experiences in psychiatric care have impacted her significantly including her lifestyle, career and her health.

2.30pm (approx.)

Leota Dr Lisi Petaia

Leota Dr Lisi Petaia is the only Pacific forensic psychiatrist in the world. She will be providing her expert opinion on the importance of striking a balance between cultural and clinical approaches to care for Pacific patients in psychiatry.

Media enquiries: 027 298 2094; media@abuseincare.org.nz

About the Abuse in Care Inquiry

The Abuse in Care Royal Commission of Inquiry is investigating the abuse and neglect that happened to children, young people and vulnerable adults in care from 1950 and 1999.