Andrew Coster Resigns as Chief Executive of Social Investment Agency

Former Police Commissioner Andrew Coster has resigned from his position as chief executive of the Social Investment Agency, following a damaging report from the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA) regarding police misconduct. An official announcement regarding his resignation is anticipated shortly, as confirmed by RNZ.

The resignation comes in the wake of the IPCA’s report, which highlighted serious failures in the police’s response to allegations of sexual misconduct against former Deputy Police Commissioner Jevon McSkimming. The report revealed that Coster, along with other senior police officials, was involved in misconduct related to how the police handled these allegations.

Coster was placed on leave after the release of the IPCA report last month. The inquiry found that when police eventually referred the allegations to the IPCA, senior officers attempted to exert influence over the investigation. This report, which spans 135 pages, has been described as a significant indictment of leadership within the police force.

Leadership Accountability and Reactions

The findings have prompted strong reactions from various officials, including Public Service Minister Judith Collins, who stated that the report showcased a “massive” failure of leadership. Collins indicated that if she had been named in such a report, she would feel deeply ashamed. She emphasized the seriousness of the allegations, stating, “If a minister tried to do that, I’m sure that the prime minister would have them out the door that way.”

Collins remarked on the extraordinary nature of the events detailed in the report, which she believes must never be repeated. “It was an extraordinary set of events, and extraordinary facts,” she noted, expressing gratitude to those who brought the matter to the IPCA’s attention.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the public service commissioner mentioned that it would be inappropriate to comment on employment matters related to Coster. Meanwhile, Social Investment Minister Nicola Willis expressed her shock and dismay at the findings, stating that the matter now lies with the public service commissioner as Coster’s employer.

The implications of the IPCA report extend beyond Coster. Chris de Wattignar, a former police officer who transitioned to aviation leadership, also resigned from his role at the Civil Aviation Authority, following his mention in the IPCA report.

Political Fallout and Future Implications

The impact of the IPCA’s findings has resonated throughout the political landscape, prompting discussions about accountability within the police force. Police Minister Mark Mitchell noted that Coster, as the executive leader, should be held accountable for the failures outlined in the report.

Labour leader Chris Hipkins expressed his disappointment in police leadership, emphasizing the urgent need for public confidence in the handling of complaints. Hipkins pointed out that the report confirmed the police’s failure to manage complaints against McSkimming appropriately, describing the situation as inexcusable.

As the fallout from this report continues to unfold, it raises significant questions about leadership accountability within the police and the processes in place for addressing allegations of misconduct. The public and officials alike are awaiting further developments regarding Coster’s resignation and the future of the Social Investment Agency.