12. Hon MARK GOSCHE (Labour—Maungakiekie) Link to this
to the Minister of Pacific Island Affairs
What steps is the Government taking to grow the economic potential of New Zealand’s Pacific people?
Hon LUAMANUVAO WINNIE LABAN (Associate Minister of Pacific Island Affairs) Link to this
Recently, the Labour-led Government launched two new plans aimed at boosting the economic potential and prosperity of Pacific peoples in New Zealand. These plans involve a partnership with 25 Government agencies, tertiary education providers, and the private sector. The Pacific Economic Action Plan and the Pacific Women’s Economic Development Plan focus on key areas for real action, including education; workforce development; business development; creative, emerging, and growth industries; entrepreneurial culture; and leadership.
Hon LUAMANUVAO WINNIE LABAN Link to this
The Pacific Women’s Economic Development Plan focuses on key actions and milestones in the four areas of education, workforce development, business development, and leadership. The aim is to boost the economic potential of our Pacific women through a series of actions. Examples include a mentor programme for top Pacific tertiary achievers; practical community training to upskill Pacific women workers to move out of traditional jobs, such as cleaning; and proactive support and seminars for Pacific women to start and to develop new businesses.
Hon Brian Donnelly Link to this
Why are these plans to grow the economic potential of New Zealand’s Pacific people so necessary?
Hon LUAMANUVAO WINNIE LABAN Link to this
Our Pacific people have made real gains under this Labour-led Government—there are more jobs, less unemployment, cheaper doctors’ visits, more opportunities, higher educational achievement, better housing, and more financial support today than under the National Government of the 1990s, when our Pacific people suffered badly. We have made huge progress, and we can do more. Our Pacific people, especially our women, are under-represented in leadership roles, business ownership, income levels, and tertiary education. These plans aim to build on our achievements to date, and use smart practical actions to drive our Pacific people and Pacific women towards full economic participation and success.
John HayesI seek leave to table an email trail prepared by Pacific academics, responding to the Government’s latest Pacific thought leaders conference.
Madam SPEAKER