Zero Tolerance of Abusive Customers

The Far North District Council has adopted a ‘zero tolerance’ approach with members of the public who threaten, abuse or physically attack staff members in the course of their official duties.

"Fortunately incidents such as this are few and far between, but when it does happen, rest assured there are likely to be consequences," Chief Executive David Edmunds said today.

"It need not go as far as physical assault. If there is a history of verbal abuse or threats, we may still place the matter in the hands of the police or relevant authorities."

His comments came after a three-month prison sentence was handed down by the court in May following an assault incident involving a staff member at Kaitaia.

"The prison sentence shows that not only the council but also other authorities take these matters very seriously. Staff members have the right to feel safe in the workplace and while carrying out their duties in the field. There really is no excuse for members of the public to attack or threaten them."

In the majority of cases, staff subjected to threats of violence or abuse were simply enforcing the law or in some cases were actually trying to help the persons involved.

"The job is hard enough and often under trying circumstances without having to contend with unwarranted abuse or threats."

"In the case of verbal abuse, two warnings are issued to desist. If the abuse continues, the staff member involved is instructed to terminate the conversation.

"We also maintain an active abuse and threats file and if more than one incident is flagged from the same source, the matter is likely to be referred to the council's legal section for further action.”