Inquiry sought into NZ mosque attacks
New Zealand politicians are calling for an inquiry to determine if the mosque terror attack could have been prevented, as a national memorial is planned for the victims.
Fifty people were killed in the March 15 attack on Christchurch's Masjid al Noor and Linwood Masjid when a lone gunman opened fire during Friday prayers.
National Party leader Simon Bridges on Sunday called for a Royal Commission to determine if the attacks could have been prevented.
"It will need to ask hard questions about whether our security and intelligence agencies had their focus in the right places," he said.
ACT leader David Seymour agrees and believes an inquiry should look at why authorities hadn't detected the alleged gunman before the attack and the adequacy of intelligence resourcing.
He has accused the Labour government of rushing the response and could thwart Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's hope for unanimous support for gun law changes.
The prime minister has announced a national memorial service will be held on Friday, with thousands expected to turn out again in solidarity for the local Muslim community.
They were able to return to the scene of the tragedy on Saturday, a week and a day after the attacks that also injured 50 people.
"The service will be a chance to once again show that New Zealanders are compassionate, inclusive and diverse, and that we will protect those values," she said.
The service will be broadcast live to events in Auckland, Wellington and Dunedin.
Foreign delegations are expected, including a representative of the British royal family.
It's rumoured to be Prince William who has visited Christchurch several times.
A vigil was held on Sunday night for the victims, where the call was for continued love and unity as many asked what will come next.
Interim measures have banned semi-automatic firearms like those used in the attack until legislation is introduced, likely around April 11.
The alleged gunman, 28-year-old Australian Brenton Tarrant, has been transferred from Christchurch and is now believed to be held in a maximum security prison in Auckland.
He has no access to television, radio or newspapers and no approved visitors.
Tarrant is charged with one count of murder but is expected to face more charges. He's due to return to court on April 5.
