THE WELLINGTON LUNATIC ASYLUM INQUIRY.

Temuka Leader, Issue 376, 19 April 1881, Page 2

THE WELLINGTON LUNATIC ASYLUM INQUIRY.

The report of the Royal Commission appointed to inquire into the management of the Mount Yiew Lunatic Asylum has been handed in to the Governor. It is very lengthy, and concludes as follows : “In conclusion, while lamenting that the duty entrusted to us has been necessarily painful and anxious, we are glad to> be able to report to your Excellency that there are some bright features in connection with the Mount View Asylum. In the cleanliness, general good order,, and discipline of the front wards, almost nothing is left to he desired. The corridors have been tastefully embellished by pic~ tures, ferns, and flowers, and the day- ’ rooms supplied with books and illustrated periodicals to divert the patients* attention. For the men .two billiard tables are provided, and for the women a croquet lawn and a conservatory. Country walks are taken, concerts and. theatrical entertainments from time to time are given, and divine service is held regularly once a week. Not a single complaint has reached us cf the conduct of any female attendant at present in the Asylum, and we have had many instances afforded us of their quiet and gentle guardianship. Nevertheless, what in our opinion is a total misconception of the true aim and design of such an institutionruns through its entire management—fertile orderly and fquiet restraint has bpen made as the circumstances of the cjjisewill admit; for those suffering from acute mania and those who 'do not yield readily to discipline, this Asylum is a. prison house, furnished with every appli. ance for punishment. We are indebted to the complainant (Mr J. H. Shaw) forthe careful and conscientious dischargeof a duty voluntarily undertaken by him We believe he has been animated by a sense of public duty in seeking for tha investigation which has been made by us and we have to report that without his or similar aid our efforts would have been comparatively futile. We are unable to. make any* recommendations as to thepayment of the costs of this Commission,, as has Already been intimated. We censure not only particular acts or sbortof those entrusted with the(charge of lunatics in this Asylum, but the system under which they are appointed and continue to act. We attach to this, report the whole of the evidence taken by us during the inquiry, together with various exhibits tendered and accepted by us as relevant.