Resignations Shake Up Ministerial Advisory Group on Retail Crime

The Ministerial Advisory Group (MAG) for victims of retail crime, established in July 2024, has been significantly impacted by the resignation of three of its five members in recent weeks. The group, chaired by Sunny Kaushal, now has only two remaining members, including Hamilton liquor retailer Ash Parmar.

Among those who stepped down is Carolyn Young, chief executive of Retail NZ, who cited personal conflicts as her reason for leaving. In a statement to 1News, Young expressed that the environment had become untenable for her due to personal attacks from Kaushal and associated groups. “It’s fair to say it’s been a really difficult environment for me,” she remarked, indicating that these tensions significantly influenced her decision to resign.

In response to Young’s departure, Kaushal acknowledged the differences in opinion but emphasized his appreciation for her perspective. He stated, “I’ve always appreciated her perspective, and I wish her well,” in comments to The Indian Weekender. He characterized the resignations as part of normal leadership changes, noting that members often hold multiple roles and may need to step back from external commitments due to increasing business demands.

Challenges and Future Directions

The advisory group was created to address pressing issues related to retail crime by engaging with victims, workers, business owners, retail experts, and advocacy groups. Its mission is to provide the Government with concrete proposals aimed at tackling the “urgent challenges” faced in the sector. Young, however, criticized the group for lacking a strategic plan, claiming it had become dominated by Kaushal’s personal proposals. She asserted, “The ideas put forward are Sunny’s ideas. They’re not new, and I don’t think they’re widely supported.”

Kaushal defended the advisory group’s direction, asserting that recent resignations coincided with career advancements for other members. He noted that Michael Bell has taken on added responsibilities within his business and that Lindsay Rowles has transitioned from Foodstuffs to become CEO of Mitre 10. “These are positive developments, not a reflection on the MAG,” he stated.

Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith confirmed that the group had been “incredibly busy” over the past year, developing detailed policy proposals. These proposals include suggestions for expanding citizens’ arrest powers and establishing a shoplifting infringement regime. According to reports from 1News, Goldsmith acknowledged the group’s active role in addressing retail crime.

As the advisory group looks to the future, Kaushal highlighted the importance of supporting retailers in making submissions to the Select Committee on the Crimes Bill. He noted that there is a demand for greater police powers to combat antisocial behaviour in city centres. Expressing disappointment over what he perceived as attempts to distract from the group’s work, Kaushal emphasized his commitment to delivering results for safer communities and businesses in New Zealand. “That’s their choice. I’m focused on delivering results for safer communities and businesses in New Zealand,” he concluded.

The recent turmoil within the Ministerial Advisory Group reflects broader challenges faced by organizations tasked with addressing complex societal issues. As leadership shifts occur, the focus remains on the urgent need for effective strategies to combat retail crime and support those affected by it.