edithatogo/nz-hansard-corpus huggingface dataset:
1. Question No. 1—Energy and ResourcesDr LIZ CRAIG (Labour) to the Minister of Energy and ResourcesORAL QUESTIONSQUESTIONS TO MINISTERSQuestion No. 1—Energy and Resources1. Dr LIZ CRAIG (Labour) to the Minister of Energy and Resources: What action is the Government taking to support the Southland economy?Hon Dr MEGAN WOODS (Minister of Energy and Resources): In July 2020 Rio Tinto announced its intention to close the aluminium smelter at Tīwai Point by August 2021. In February 2021 Rio Tinto announced it would delay the smelter's closure until December 2024. This uncertainty has been difficult for the people of Southland. Regardless of Rio Tinto's commercial decisions Southlanders deserve certainty about the future of their region. Major economic shifts are not easy for communities and that's why our Government has provided support to the Southland community to go through a just transition process.This transition is an opportunity to create a more resilient local economy develop new industries and improve the community's ability to manage change themselves setting Southland up for a good future. We're committed to work hand in hand with the Southland community to plan for and manage the uncertainty brought about by ongoing speculation on the future of the smelter.Dr Liz Craig: How is the Government working with Southlanders to shape their future?Hon Dr MEGAN WOODS: Our recently released just transition work plan for Southland outlines our commitment to support the community's ambition of building a productive and sustainable economy where workers have good jobs and the region has long-term resilience. Southland businesses and workers are ready to enter new markets but could use some help along the way. The plan has identified that Southland's transition will focus on the areas of clean energy aquaculture and innovative land uses. Recently we've seen these plans start to come to fruition with the announcement of Datagrid a carbon-neutral cloud computer data centre to be established in Southland. In developing the work plan we've worked closely with iwi local government unions businesses and the education aquaculture and community sectors to develop a shared vision for Southland's future.Dr Liz Craig: What has the Government done to include iwi aspirations in the just transition?Hon Dr MEGAN WOODS: This Government knows that delivering on Māori and iwi aspirations is key to a just transition. What is good for iwi is good for Southland. Iwi have been at the centre of this just transition process from the start. Officials are working closely with Murihiku Papatipu Rūnanga and the Murihiku Regeneration collective to ensure we manage the social economic and environmental impacts of economic change for the wider Southland community. We will continue to work with everybody to support Southland's transition regardless of Rio Tinto's commercial decisions.
SpeechNAISI CHEN (Labour): Tonight I rise in this House as a proud Labour member because we are forward-thinking; we actually think about the next generation. I'm here and I actually asked for this speaking slot because I want to publicly on the record thank the Minister of Transport for this amazing piece of legislation. I am now the proud half-owner and driver of an electric vehicle. Why only half of it? Because I don't need my car for all seven days of the week. But this is the first car I have ever bought with completely my own money. And when we and my flatmate went in to make a decision about the new car that we were going to buy together we had a choice. I love the Wrangler; that's my little confession to make. I love cars that are square. Then we looked at all the other options that we could have had for the same price or less of a Wrangler. And do you know what? A Tesla Model 3 was cheaper than a Wrangler. And that is better for the environment as well.In my generation not everyone can afford a new Tesla or half a new Tesla. Many of my friends have come to me and said Naisi why are there no electric vehicles (EVs) in the second-hand car market?" I'm reminded constantly whenever I get asked that question of the Chinese proverb that the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago the second-best time is today. And that's what we have had to do. This is what we've done because we have to plant the tree today. I mean that by all meanings of that proverb because this is for our planet. The reduction in carbon the reduction in our footprint on this earth is why we've put in this bill. Today and here with this bill is a way that we're not only going to support the next generation to make better choices about their car buying but this is also a chance to really help our environment.I did a bit of research before I got up to speak. The first electric car was invented in the 1800s—the 1800s. But why are we only starting to drive EVs now? It's because the market has failed. It's because big carmakers wanted to make money from petrol; that's why they've blocked all mass production of electric vehicles. So it takes a Government as progressive as we are on this side of the House as forward-thinking as we are on this side of the House to really make the market be influenced by the right choice.Can I just add it is not just about high-end EVs as well. Hybrid cars are also really good for the environment. And can I encourage those who cannot afford a brand new EV at this moment to consider the hybrid vehicles that are fortunately a lot more popular in our second-hand car market at this moment because every single decision matters and we can all make a change. And on that note I commend this bill to the House."
Woods Megan; Rurawhe AdrianHon Dr MEGAN WOODS (Minister of Housing): I move That this debate be now adjourned. Motion agreed to.DEPUTY SPEAKER: This debate is adjourned and is set down for resumption next sitting day.
Rurawhe AdrianPETITIONS PAPERS SELECT COMMITTEE REPORTS AND INTRODUCTION OF BILLSDEPUTY SPEAKER: Petitions have been delivered to the Clerk for presentation.CLERK: Petition of Bob McCoskrie requesting that the House allow the use of COVID-19 rapid antigen tests as an alternative way for unvaccinated people to access venuespetition of Melody Willis requesting that the House urge the Government to fund the transition of annual agriculture systems to plant-based agriculture andpetition of Greenpeace Aotearoa requesting that the House urge the Government to support the creation of ocean sanctuaries across the planet.DEPUTY SPEAKER: Those petitions are referred to the Petitions Committee. Ministers have delivered papers.CLERK: Annual reports for 2021 of the Electoral Commission New Zealand Green Investment Finance Nursing Council of New Zealand Report of the Registrar of the Environment Court and WorkSafe andstatement of intent 2022-26 for the Social Workers Registration Board.DEPUTY SPEAKER: Those papers are published under the authority of the House. Select committee reports have been delivered for presentation.CLERK: Reports of the Health Committee on the 2020-21 annual review of Te Aho o Te Kahu the Cancer Control Agency; 2020-21 annual review of the Ministry of Health; and the petition of Sue Haldane; andreport of the Regulations Review Committee on the COVID-19 Public Health Response (Specified Work Vaccinations) Order 2021; the COVID-19 Public Health Response (Maritime Border) Order (No 2) Amendment Order (No 3) 2021; and the COVID-19 Public Health Response (Protection Framework) Amendment Order (No 2) 2021.DEPUTY SPEAKER: The Regulations Review Committee's reports are set down for consideration. The Clerk has been informed of the introduction of a bill.CLERK: Paige Harris Birth Registration Bill introduction.DEPUTY SPEAKER: That bill is set down for first reading.
Hipkins Chris; Bishop ChrisBUSINESS STATEMENTHon CHRIS HIPKINS (Leader of the House): Next week the debate on the Prime Minister's statement will continue. We're aiming to conclude that on Wednesday. Legislation to be considered will include the third reading of the Conversion Practices Prohibition Legislation Bill and the further stages of the Land Transport (Clean Vehicles) Amendment Bill the Land Transport (Drug Driving) Amendment Bill and the Commerce Amendment Bill. The House will consider a motion to approve COVID-19 orders. On the morning of Wednesday 16 February there will be an extended sitting for members' business.CHRIS BISHOP (National): I thank the Leader of the House for that update. I wonder if he could advise the Parliament whether or not it's the Government's intention to introduce urgent legislation to amend the Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Act which has been the subject of some public commentary in recent days.Hon CHRIS HIPKINS (Leader of the House): There is no such intention.
Rurawhe AdrianTHURSDAY 10 FEBRUARY 2022The Deputy Speaker took the Chair at 2 p.m.KARAKIA/PRAYERSDEPUTY SPEAKER: Ā kāti kia tau ano te rangimārie ki a tātou. Kia inoi tātou. E te Atua kaha rawa ka tuku whakamoemiti atu mātou mō ngā karakia kua waihotia mai ki runga i a mātou. Ka waiho i ō mātou pānga whaiaro katoa ki te taha. Ka mihi mātou ki te Kuīni me te inoi atu mō te ārahitanga i roto i ō mātou whakaaroarohanga kia mōhio ai kia whakaiti ai tā mātou whakahaere i ngā take o te Whare nei mō te oranga te maungārongo me te aroha o Aotearoa. Āmene.[Well let peace settle upon us all. Let us pray. Almighty God we give thanks for the blessings which have been bestowed on us. Laying aside all personal interests we acknowledge the Queen and pray for guidance in our deliberations that we may conduct the affairs of this House with wisdom and humility for the welfare peace and compassion of New Zealand. Amen.]
Wednesday 9 February 2022 - Volume 757
Conversion Practices Prohibition Legislation Bill — In Committee—Part 3 Schedules and Clauses
VotePart 3 Amendment to Human Rights Act 1993 CHAIRPERSON (Hon Jenny Salesa): Members we now come to Part 3. This is the debate on clauses 14 and 15 Amendment to Human Rights Act 1993". The question is that Part 3 stand part.A party vote was called for on the question That Part 3 be agreed to.Ayes 113New Zealand Labour 65; New Zealand National 26 (Bayly Bennett Bishop Brownlee Collins Dean Doocey Goldsmith Grigg Hipango Kuriger Luxon McClay McKelvie Mitchell Mooney Muller Penk Pugh Simmonds Simpson Smith Stanford van de Molen Watts Willis); Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand 10; ACT New Zealand 10; Te Paati Māori 2.Noes 7New Zealand National 7 (Bridges Brown Lee O'Connor Reti Upston Woodhouse).Part 3 agreed to.Schedule 1 Transitional savings and related provisionsCHAIRPERSON (Hon Jenny Salesa): The question is that the schedule stand part.Schedule 1 agreed to.Clauses 1 and 2CHAIRPERSON (Hon Jenny Salesa): Members we now come to our final debate clauses 1 and 2—the debate on the title and commencement of the bill. The question is that clause 1 stand part.A party vote was called for on the question That clause 1 be agreed to.Ayes 113New Zealand Labour 65; New Zealand National 26 (Bayly Bennett Bishop Brownlee Collins Dean Doocey Goldsmith Grigg Hipango Kuriger Luxon McClay McKelvie Mitchell Mooney Muller Penk Pugh Simmonds Simpson Smith Stanford van de Molen Watts Willis); Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand 10; ACT New Zealand 10; Te Paati Māori 2.Noes 7New Zealand National 7 (Bridges Brown Lee O'Connor Reti Upston Woodhouse).Clause 1 agreed to.The result corrected after originally being announced as Ayes 111 Noes 7.CHAIRPERSON (Hon Jenny Salesa): The question is that clause 2 stand part.Clause 2 agreed to.Bill to be reported without amendment."
Conversion Practices Prohibition Legislation Bill — In Committee—Part 2
VoteCHAIRPERSON (Hon Jenny Salesa): The question is that Michael Woodhouse's amendment inserting new clause 13A set out on Supplementary Order Paper 126 be agreed to.A party vote was called for on the question That the amendment be agreed to.Ayes 25New Zealand National 15 (Bridges Brown Dean Goldsmith Grigg Hipango Lee McClay O'Connor Pugh Reti Simmonds Simpson van de Molen Woodhouse); ACT New Zealand 10. Noes 77New Zealand Labour 65; New Zealand National 2 (Bishop Willis); Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand 10.Abstentions 2New Zealand National 2 (Kuriger McKelvie).Amendment not agreed to.A party vote was called for on the question That Part 2 be agreed to.Ayes 111New Zealand Labour 65; New Zealand National 26 (Bayly Bennett Bishop Brownlee Collins Dean Doocey Goldsmith Grigg Hipango Kuriger Luxon McClay McKelvie Mitchell Mooney Muller Penk Pugh Simmonds Simpson Smith Stanford van de Molen Watts Willis); Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand 10; ACT New Zealand 10. Noes 7New Zealand National 7 (Bridges Brown Lee O'Connor Reti Upston Woodhouse). Part 2 agreed to.
Conversion Practices Prohibition Legislation Bill — In Committee—Part 1
12. Question No. 12—Economic and Regional DevelopmentWILLOW-JEAN PRIME (Labour—Northland) to the Minister for Economic and Regional DevelopmentQuestion No. 12—Economic and Regional Development12. WILLOW-JEAN PRIME (Labour—Northland) to the Minister for Economic and Regional Development: What progress has the Government made on regional economic priorities?Hon STUART NASH (Minister for Economic and Regional Development): In the member's own electorate of Northland—also part of Kelvin Davis's Te Tai Tokerau seat—the Puketawa Marae in the Hokianga became the 500th regional economic development project completed with Crown investment from the Provincial Growth Fund and other funds. With more than 500 projects now delivered regional economies have been given a shot in the arm from our wider strategy to support local jobs and businesses and strengthen community resilience. As our Prime Minister announced in her statement to Parliament yesterday historic under-investment in infrastructure has been a handbrake on our economy and our communities and held back regions from reaching their full potential. The renovation of Puketawa Marae was done by local companies subbies and workers with 22 people employed at various stages. Locals were kept in work during the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and local businesses won contracts for materials and service.Anna Lorck: What projects in Hawke's Bay have enabled the Government to make progress on regional economic development priorities?Hon STUART NASH: The Government has delivered 47 completed regional economic development projects in Hawke's Bay—$34 million has been invested in this region creating jobs investing in regional infrastructure and supporting local jobs and businesses. For example our investments have seen Hawk Group increase manufacturing to accommodate growth extension and improvement of the Tukituki cycle trails and allowed The Limery in Wairoa to greatly expand. This Government will continue to deliver support for our regional economies investing in regional infrastructure which has previously been run down and removing barriers for growth in our regional economies.Tāmati Coffey: What projects in the Bay of Plenty have enabled the Government to make progress on regional economic development priorities?Hon STUART NASH: For the Bay of Plenty the Government has delivered 50 completed regional economic development projects with a value of over $40 million. These projects have removed barriers for growth and given a meaningful boost to the regional economy. Our investment has seen investment in the St John Ambulance station the Miro-Meihana Koata Berry Farm creating jobs and supporting the local economy. And we are not done yet. The momentum of regional economic development is picking up pace. We're delivering for communities boosting regional economies across a wide variety of industries and supporting local jobs and businesses.
8. Question No. 8—Arts Culture and HeritageARENA WILLIAMS (Labour—Manurewa) to the Associate Minister for Arts Culture and HeritageQuestion No. 8—Arts Culture and Heritage8. ARENA WILLIAMS (Labour—Manurewa) to the Associate Minister for Arts Culture and Heritage: What recent announcements has she made about support for the arts and events sector?Hon CARMEL SEPULONI (Minister for Arts Culture and Heritage): Last week I announced $121 million in further support for the arts and cultural sector. Key elements of the support we announced include: extending the Arts and Culture Event Support Scheme to 31 January 2023 and extending the key eligibility criteria; funding more direct support for individuals and organisations through the Cultural Sector Emergency Relief Fund; increasing the limit on funding for individual organisations from $100000 to $300000; a one-off grant of $5000 to self-employed individuals or sole traders; and a boost in funding for the Screen Production Recovery Fund.Arena Williams: Why is this support important for the sector?Hon CARMEL SEPULONI: The arts and culture sector continues to be the engine of growth and innovation helping to fuel the New Zealand economy. The sector contributes approximately $10.9 billion to the New Zealand economy making up about 3.4 percent of GDP. The support we've announced follows ongoing engagement with the sector to understand their needs as the pandemic has progressed. It underlines the economic and social value of the arts and ensures that we're taking active steps towards protecting people's jobs incomes and the livelihoods of those who make a living from delivering arts experiences and events.Arena Williams: What feedback has she seen on the announcement?Hon CARMEL SEPULONI: I'm pleased with the responses I've seen so far. The executive director of the Auckland Pride Festival Max Tweedie said This is a massive relief. The support scheme is a fantastic initiative that I'm excited all events across 2022 will be able to access. Fantastic to see the Government responding quickly to the needs of the arts sector.""
Motions — Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II—Platinum Jubilee
VoteA party vote was called for on the question That the House congratulate Her Majesty the Queen on the occasion of the Platinum Jubilee of Her Majesty's accession to the Throne.Ayes 118New Zealand Labour 65; New Zealand National 33; Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand 10; ACT New Zealand 10.Noes 2Te Paati Māori 2.Motion agreed to.
Salesa JennyHouse resumed.REPORT OF COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE HOUSECHAIRPERSON (Hon Jenny Salesa): Madam Speaker the committee has considered the Conversion Practices Prohibition Legislation Bill and reports it without amendment. The committee has also considered the Land Transport (Drug Driving) Amendment Bill and reports progress. I move That the report be adopted.Motion agreed to.Report adopted.ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Hon Jacqui Dean): The Conversion Practices Prohibition Legislation Bill is set down for third reading next sitting day. The Land Transport (Drug Driving) Amendment Bill the Commerce Amendment Bill and the Māori Commercial Aquaculture Claims Settlement Amendment Bill are all set down for further consideration in committee next sitting day. Members the House stands adjourned until 2 p.m. tomorrow.The House adjourned at 9.56 p.m.
Voting — Correction—Conversion Practices Prohibition Legislation Bill
Salesa JennyVOTINGCorrection—Conversion Practices Prohibition Legislation BillCHAIRPERSON (Hon Jenny Salesa): Before I report progress on the bill I need to correct a vote on clause 1 of the Conversion Practices Prohibition Legislation Bill. So the correct vote is: the Ayes are 113 and the Noes are seven. The Ayes have it. I will now report progress on the previous bills.Progress to be reported.
Salesa JennyLAND TRANSPORT (DRUG DRIVING) AMENDMENT BILLIn CommitteePart 1 Amendments to Land Transport Act 1998CHAIRPERSON (Hon Jenny Salesa): Members we now turn to the Land Transport (Drug Driving) Amendment Bill. Part 1 of this debate is the debate on clauses 3 to 40 and Schedules 1 and 2 amendments to Land Transport Act 1998. The question is that Part 1 stand part.
SpeechHon MICHAEL WOODHOUSE (National): A very brief intervention to acknowledge Ms Chhour's contribution and just to reiterate that she's right and indeed if time permitted and there was value in doing so I would withdraw this amendment and re-table it with the age of 16 not 18. But given the Minister's comments and my own explanation of it I think I'll just leave Hansard to record that my preference now is for 16 accepting that it'll be defeated in the vote.
Chhour KarenKAREN CHHOUR (ACT): Thank you Madam Chair. I'd just like to make a few observations on Supplementary Order Paper (SOP) 126 from Michael Woodhouse in regards to medical procedures without parental consent. I understand where Michael Woodhouse is coming from. As a parent of four children myself I understand the responsibility and the burden on our shoulders as a parent to make the right decisions for our children as they're growing up. When they're young those decisions are left up to us. I agree that under the age of 16 parents should have the right to make that decision but I think the age of 18 is going a little bit too far. This is going against other laws we have when it comes to medical practice. Our children over the age of 16 have the right to privacy with their GP they have the right to make decisions about their body and about what they want to do with their body.So whilst I agree with the intent of what Mr Woodhouse is trying to achieve here I think just the age of 18 is going a little bit too far. If this was to state the age of 16 I would be more inclined to support the full bill because as I have said parents have a huge responsibility to make sure our children are well cared for well looked after and make informed decisions; and children under the age of 16 are still the responsibility of us parents. I feel that this SOP has just missed the mark a little bit in regards to age.
Salesa JennyPart 2 Offences and civil liability in relation to conversion practices CHAIRPERSON (Hon Jenny Salesa): Members we now come to Part 2 which is the debate on clauses 8 to 13 Offences and civil liability in relation to conversion practices". The question is that Part 2 stand part.Hon MICHAEL WOODHOUSE (National): Thank you Madam Chair—I'll get it in the right order. I'm very pleased to speak to Supplementary Order Paper (SOP) 126 in my name.I firstly want to acknowledge the Minister's correction of my error. Quite rightly section 36(1) of the Care of Children Act does mean that a child can consent to a medical procedure independent of their parents or guardians. So my question really is for the purposes of this discussion had my amendment talked about a person under the age of 16 rather than under the age of 18 would the Government be inclined to support it; and if not why not?Hon KRIS FAAFOI (Minister of Justice): I hate to start this with disappointment for the member but no because the current framework around the Care of Children Act and also the framework for medical treatment for those who are under 16—which I believe is quite well based on a foundation of case law—we believe is a solid foundation for this piece of legislation as well.I'm not sure if the member was alluding to the fact that the Supplementary Order Paper (SOP) in his name as it stands at 18 probably shouldn't stand as it is. But we believe that the current framework around the care of children which allows children or young people who are 16 and over to make a decision independently again doesn't exclude the respectful and open conversations between a youngster and a parent from happening; it's just that the law clearly sets out that quite independently of the parent they can make their own decision based on law.Now I think in reality when these conversations happen in a healthy way there is a healthy conversation between a youngster and a parent. In fact I know of many instances of that happening. Depending on the age and the understanding of the youngster below 16 this is a situation that is faced by the medical practice and medical sector day in day out. In conjunction with health practitioners parents and guardians and the youngster involved you can usually nine times out of 10—or probably more than that—come to a conclusion where all parties are happy.The fundamental right here that we are both trying to protect and express is that an individual has a right to their own decision and agency around their sexual orientation gender identity and gender orientation. So that's why we oppose the SOP in the member's name as it stands because it does not match the foundation of what is currently in place with medical treatments."
Andersen Ginny; Salesa JennyGINNY ANDERSEN (Labour—Hutt South): I move That the question be now put.CHAIRPERSON (Hon Jenny Salesa): The question is that the motion be now put. Motion agreed to.
SpeechDr ELIZABETH KEREKERE (Green): Kia ora e te Māngai. Thank you Minister for your remarks. We have no doubt that the Government cares about rainbow people and that it's wanting to put in legislation that will serve our needs but having seen the weight of submissions you received you will know that many people will be disappointed with the bill as it stands. I decided with this Supplementary Order Paper 125 to focus on just one thing and that was about definition. You stated that gender identity and gender expression were not fully defined but contained in other legislation. Rudimentary but I did just do a quick search in that rainbow legislation that you mentioned and I would say that actually these are quite new terms in the way that they're being used in terms of conversion practices. I was part of the select committee process and so I agreed that it was very important that we actually put examples in here about what conversion practice is. I look at key words like where a particular type of practice a sustained effort or treatment that uses shame or coercion because of same-sex attractions or non - gender-conforming behaviour where gender orientation gender identity and gender expression are seen as a defect or a disorder and where prayer a deliverance or an exorcism is used to change or suppress. I'm not sure how the law or the police can interpret that or if we're leaving it to the Human Rights Commission through their civil redress process how they are meant to then interpret whether those things are happening and that people understand that they're happening because of reasons that are not defined in the law. Gender expression" is a relatively new term in our communities but there's certain language that gets used that's very consistent. What the Human Rights Commission proposed is what is kind of standard now. That's used at the UN and as that language is standardised then we use it across rainbow communities. It seems odd to me that you would say "Here are the examples of the type of practice." but you then don't define what is the nature that that practice is supposedly being used to change suppress coerce or shame.We have other quite common terms like "health service" and "health practitioner" which are in here and they are identified as having the same meaning as a particular other piece of legislation. So I would be very happy as an alternative as a compromise to have those terms in here and actually specify what definition in some other part of legislation we're using when we're talking about it. Kia ora."
Salesa JennyCONVERSION PRACTICES PROHIBITION LEGISLATION BILLIn CommitteePart 1 Preliminary provisionsCHAIRPERSON (Hon Jenny Salesa): Members we come first to the Conversion Practices Prohibition Legislation Bill. The first debate is on Part 1.
Salesa JennyHOUSE IN COMMITTEECHAIRPERSON (Hon Jenny Salesa): Members the House in committee on the Conversion Practices Prohibition Legislation Bill the Land Transport (Drug Driving) Amendment Bill the Commerce Amendment Bill and the Maori Commercial Aquaculture Claims Settlement Amendment Bill.
SpeechVANUSHI WALTERS (Labour—Upper Harbour): While guns came into New Zealand well before World War I it was that large influx of ex-military guns that flooded into the country after World War I that really lead to the first structural response to regulating our guns. Over the years there have been times of crisis that have called for a focus on how we mature that gun law.My colleague Golriz Ghahraman spoke to the events of March 15 and the horrific acts that happened and that resulted in action being taken on this side of the House. The banning of semi-automatic firearms magazines and parts—as my colleague Ibrahim Omer mentioned 60000 military-style weapons being taken off the street. That might be baulked at by the other side of the House but it is significant. Those are weapons that reload extremely quickly; they presented a huge risk.Our Government is committed to reducing gun violence and to providing the police with the tools that they need to address gun violence in a responsible way. My colleague Arena Williams talked about the National Party bill that came in front of us—the Justice Committee—last year. It was flawed. We did try our best to fix what were essentially gaps within the bill but it was still incoherent. The previous bill that came before the House was not comprehensive. Again as my colleague said it would have only covered gang members with convictions. To be honest it felt a little bit more like it was crafted for the purpose of a media release targeting a specific group as opposed to good law designed to help keep people safe.By contrast this Government's bill will include serious firearms offences. I won't go through the definitions. I won't go through the scaled penalties—my colleagues have done that. I would just say that as a member of Justice Committee I do look forward to listening with open ears receiving the advice that we're given from officials but also considering the steps that other countries have put in place in Australia in Canada in the UK. There is a fascinating breadth of experience in the firearms prohibition order space. I commend this bill to the House.ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Hon Jacqui Dean): The question is That the Firearms Prohibition Orders Legislation Bill be now read a first time.Motion agreed to.Bill read a first time.ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Hon Jacqui Dean): The question is That the Firearms Prohibition Orders Legislation Bill be considered by the Justice Committee.Motion agreed to.Bill referred to the Justice Committee.ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Hon Jacqui Dean): I declare the House in committee for consideration on the Conversion Practices Prohibition Legislation Bill the Land Transport (Drug Driving) Amendment Bill the Commerce Amendment Bill and the Maori Commercial Aquaculture Claims Settlement Amendment Bill.
Firearms Prohibition Orders Legislation Bill — First Reading
SpeechIBRAHIM OMER (Labour): Thank you Madam Speaker. It's really naive to think that this Government is soft on crime is soft on gangs. This Government takes New Zealanders' safety seriously and while we appreciate the support from the members from the other side of the House I'd like to push back on some of the assertions that we are soft on crime. And I think they can't get over the fact that the bill that they came up with last year was flawed as my colleague Arena Williams alluded to. It was only going to target certain people and leaving criminals basically roaming around doing whatever they want.Can I start with a quote from the Hon Poto Williams that Owning a firearm in New Zealand is a privilege not a right." I have no doubt this bill help to accelerate efforts under way to combat firearms and the crimes that are related to them. This bill aligns with the Government's priority to keep New Zealanders safe and it delivers a key part of the Government's commitment to reduce firearms violence to date. The Government has taken 60000 military-style weapons off the streets established the ministerial arms advisory group to assist in these reforms and by June 2023 we will have a comprehensive register in place that will help fill a 30-year deficit of information when it comes to firearms in our community and the list goes on. This bill will enable the courts to make a firearms prohibition order (FPO) for any person over 18 years of age who has been convicted of a serious criminal offence and the people who are subject to a FPO would not be able to be around firearms stay where firearms are available join or visit shooting clubs or ranges or participate in any activity that involves firearms. These are significant restrictions and I have no doubt that they will help reduce the crimes significantly. The impact of firearms offences to some communities is quite obvious especially in our Māori whānau. It's almost doubled in the last 10 years and it's about time that something is done about it. Tonight many of the victims of firearm offences or firearm crimes crimes related to firearms will be watching this debate with interest. This will include families of the 51 shuhada killed in the Christchurch mosque in 2019 and those who were left with injuries. By doing this tonight we are sending them reassurance telling them that never again will incidents of this magnitude happen in our country and we're telling the other victims of firearms that we've got your back. On this note it's worth mentioning that this bill also deals with terrorism-related offences under the Terrorism Suppression Act. This bill is a good bill and it will play a significant role in reducing firearm-related crimes. I would like to commend the Minister for the hard work to bring this bill to the House. I commend this bill to the House."
Hipkins Chris; Salesa JennyHon CHRIS HIPKINS (Leader of the House): I move That this debate be now adjourned.Motion agreed to.ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Hon Jenny Salesa): This debate is adjourned and is set down for resumption next sitting day.
Waititi RawiriRAWIRI WAITITI (Co-Leader—Te Paati Māori): This will come as no surprise to this House or to Willie Jackson for that matter that Te Paati Māori absolutely refute this motion. We were disappointed when the Prime Minister acknowledged the Queen's platinum jubilee on Waitangi Day. We believe it was tone-deaf and colour-blind to the degradation of the rights of tangata whenua for 182 years. Kia ora tātou.
McKee NicoleNICOLE McKEE (ACT): I stand on behalf of the ACT Party to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II's 70-year reign as monarch of the Commonwealth. Born in a London townhouse in April 1926 she didn't expect to rule but is doing an exceptional and consistent job for the people as she promised she would do on her 21st birthday. Her intentions were made known well in advance of her becoming Queen when in October 1940 she addressed children who had been evacuated during the Blitz using the BBC's Children's Hour radio broadcast. She spoke to those disaffected children as a 14-year-old herself telling them And when peace comes remember it will be for us the children of today to make the world of tomorrow a better and happier place."She is now at the age of 95 and has seen many changes in our society in culture and in industry adapting herself and her family to the modernisation of our world during this time. She sent her first email in 1976 when we were still trying to grapple with getting computers here in New Zealand and her first Instagram post in 2019—I personally still don't have the 'gram yet.What an introduction as head of State to have Sir Winston Churchill as her first Prime Minister during a world war. And we note she has been a consistent and dutiful monarch who has outlasted 13 British Prime Ministers so far 16 New Zealand Prime Ministers to date and all together 170 Prime Ministers over her 54 Commonwealth nations.Queen Elizabeth II was a part of the women's Auxiliary Territorial Service during World War II. She trained as a mechanic and a military truck driver being the first female member of the royal family to become a full-time active member of the British Armed Forces and she rose to the rank of junior commander by the end of the war and then disguised and unnoticed in her army uniform herself and her sister Princess Margaret held hands in jubilation with thousands of revellers gathering in front of Buckingham Palace to celebrate Victory in Europe day in May 1945.The Queen had and has consistently sought to improve her knowledge in all areas of relevance to better enable dialogue and advice with world leaders. She continues to reign with dignity fortitude and respect from her Commonwealth nations. In October 1964 when addressing the Quebec provincial legislature she said "The function of constitutional monarchy is to personify the democratic state to sanction legitimate authority to assure the legality of means and guarantee the execution of the public will. It is my ardent desire that no citizen in my Realms should suffer restraint."The ACT Party congratulates Queen Elizabeth II on her 70-year jubilee celebrations. A leader who continues to reign over her Commonwealth nations with that dignity fortitude and respect of and for her subjects."
Shaw JamesHon JAMES SHAW (Co-Leader—Green): On behalf of the Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand I would like to acknowledge Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II for her 70 years of public service. She has exercised her office with a remarkable sense of duty grace virtue and integrity. To have maintained that service for longer than anyone in this House has been alive—not even you Mr Speaker is worthy of our admiration and praise. Frankly any 95-year-old great-grandmother who is still working the same job that she was when she was 25 deserves our astonished accolades.As we reflect on this historical moment we should look to the future. My entire adult life I have firmly believed that the head of State of Aotearoa should be someone from Aotearoa. It is completely anachronistic to think that values and identity of 21st century New Zealand a democratic nation born of the Pacific grounded in Te Tiriti o Waitangi is best personified by an inherited monarchy from the opposite side of the planet steeped in the history and values of feudal aristocracy and imperial colonialism.There is no doubt that Queen Elizabeth II is an extraordinary woman who has given a lifetime of service to her country and its former colonies. But as we mark her platinum jubilee I do put it to this House that the debate over our future constitutional arrangements is overdue. As we approach the 50th anniversary of the Waitangi Tribunal this is also an opportune time to repeat the Green Party's call on the Crown to address the historical wrongs of Māori land dispossession.I riro whenua atu me hoki whenua mai.[As the land was taken so the land should be returned.]
Luxon ChristopherCHRISTOPHER LUXON (Leader of the Opposition): On behalf of Her Majesty's loyal Opposition I join with the Prime Minister in honouring the remarkable reign of the Queen of New Zealand Elizabeth II and congratulate her on the platinum jubilee of her accession to the throne.Seventy years ago a 25-year-old woman took on an extraordinary mantel of responsibility and made a lifelong commitment to serving others; a commitment that she has fulfilled with endless grace dignity and strength. Her Majesty made that commitment and took on that mantel at an immensely difficult time having lost her beloved father King George VI a loss that we know she still feels keenly on the anniversary of her accession.What followed since that day 6 February 1952 has been a lifetime of immeasurable and selfless service. A great number of us have only ever known the sense of reassuring stability that the Queen's reign has afforded to our lives. As our head of State Her Majesty became the first Queen of New Zealand to visit our shores. In fact she has visited New Zealand 10 times and members of her family countless more. She now becomes the first Queen of New Zealand to celebrate a platinum jubilee.Over the last 70 years New Zealand and the world has changed profoundly. We emerged from under the wing of the British Empire and we chartered our own course as an independent and confident young nation. Throughout that time the Queen has continued to display her devoted and genuine care for New Zealand and for New Zealanders.While international institutions have peaked and diminished in their influence and significance the Queen's reign has strengthened the role of a modern monarchy and the important part that it plays in our constitutional arrangements and our system of parliamentary democracy.Her Majesty's reign has all also included 70 years as the head of the Commonwealth a body which in a time of divisive politics and urgent global challenges is important in bringing together countries with shared values and ideals so that we can find enduring solutions and celebrate our commonalities.On behalf the New Zealand National Party I congratulate Queen Elizabeth II the Queen of New Zealand and wish to convey our sincere gratitude for her lifetime of duty commitment and service.
SpeechMOTIONSHer Majesty Queen Elizabeth II—Platinum JubileeRt Hon JACINDA ARDERN (Prime Minister): I move That this House congratulate Her Majesty the Queen on the occasion of the Platinum Jubilee of Her Majesty's accession to the Throne. On 6 February 1952 aged just 25 Queen Elizabeth II ascended to the Throne and became the monarch of seven independent States including New Zealand. Now 70 years later she's Queen of the 15 Commonwealth Realms some of which did not exist as independent nations at the time. This change in the world's geopolitical make-up is a strong reminder of the tremendous changes that have taken place in the world in the last 70 years and through all of those years the Queen has stood as a model of service and unwavering dedication to her role. As Queen of New Zealand the Queen has always taken a strong personal interest in our nation. She has visited here 10 times between 1953 and 2002. She's also attended many events in the United Kingdom celebrating and commemorating New Zealand and the wider Commonwealth. I have had the honour to meet her both in person and virtually and I know that she has a deep knowledge of Aotearoa New Zealand and cares sincerely for the wellbeing of our nation. In more recent times when travel has been limited the Queen has reached out to us here in New Zealand on at least two occasions in the midst of the pandemic. Her motivation was no more than to ask how everyone in New Zealand was doing. Her care and clear affection for Aotearoa and its people has been obvious in every conversation I've had the pleasure of having with her.A few weeks ago in her Christmas message the Queen said that she hoped that her platinum jubilee year would be an opportunity for people everywhere to enjoy a sense of togetherness. There are different views in society and indeed in this Parliament on the role of the monarchy. However I know that we all join with Her Majesty's wish for a shared sense of togetherness as we face the challenges of the future.Today I offer our congratulations on behalf of the people of Aotearoa New Zealand to our Queen as she celebrates her platinum jubilee but I also offer our profound thanks for her sacrifice her service and her love for us.SPEAKER: The question is that the motion be agreed to.
Salesa JennyWEDNESDAY 9 FEBRUARY 2022The Speaker took the Chair at 2 p.m.KARAKIA/PRAYERSHon JENNY SALESA (Assistant Speaker): Ke tau lotu. 'E 'Otua Mafimafi kuo mau taa'i mālie 'i ho'o 'ofá mo e ngaahi tāpuaki hono kotoa. 'Oku tuku homau lotó ka mau hū atu ke ke malu'i ange mu'a 'a e Kuiní mo tataki 'emau fua fatongia 'i he Fale Aleá 'aki 'a e poto Faka-'Otua 'ofa pea mo e 'ulungaanga malū ko e 'uhí ko e mo'ui mo e melino 'a e fonuá. 'Oku mau kole atu 'a e ngaahi me'á ni hono kotoa 'i he huafa ho 'alo ka ko homau fakamo'uí 'Emeni.
Tuesday 8 February 2022 - Volume 757
Conversion Practices Prohibition Legislation Bill — Second Reading
VoteSPEAKER: The question is that the motion be agreed to. Those who are of that opinion will say Aye to the contrary opinion will say No. the Ayes have it. Chris Penk: Party vote. Hon Member: A personal vote don't you mean? Chris Penk: A personal vote—I beg your pardon. SPEAKER: No well I—yeah we will have a party vote. But I just want to tell members that the normal thing when you have a party vote is that you've got to have people saying it both ways but—all right. At the moment it's sort of like 120 to none but I'll accept the fact that we're in unusual circumstances and we will have a party vote. The Clerk will conduct a party vote. A party vote was called for on the question That the Conversion Practices Prohibition Legislation Bill be now read a second time.Ayes 113New Zealand Labour 65; New Zealand National 26 (Bayly Bennett Bishop Brownlee Collins Dean Doocey Goldsmith Grigg Hipango Kuriger Luxon McClay McKelvie Mitchell Mooney Muller Penk Pugh Simmonds Simpson Smith S Stanford van de Molen Watts Willis); Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand 10; ACT New Zealand 10; Te Paati Māori 2.Noes 7New Zealand National 7 (Bridges Brown Lee O'Connor S Reti Upston Woodhouse).Motion agreed to.Bill read a second time.
Speaker's Statements — Reminder to Members—Email
SpeechSPEAKER'S STATEMENTSReminder to Members—EmailSPEAKER: Members before I call Government order of the day No. 2 I will ask members and especially whips to consult their emails before they leave the buildings tonight.
Speaker's Ruling — Conversion Practices Prohibition Legislation Bill—Voting
SpeechSPEAKER'S RULINGSConversion Practices Prohibition Legislation Bill—VotingSPEAKER: The House is resumed. Members following discussions at the Business Committee today I want to inform you about how the House will handle voting over the Conversion Practices Prohibition Legislation Bill. The National Party has indicated that it intends to treat all future votes on the bill as a conscience issue. No other party has indicated that it is doing so and in fact it was treated as a party vote matter at the first reading. Normally I would allow a personal vote in such circumstances. However we need to consider how to maintain physical distancing in the debating chamber and lobbies and personal voting makes that challenging. At the Business Committee we agreed to use split party voting—as set out in Standing Order 145—on the Conversion Practices Prohibition Legislation Bill. Split party voting effectively allows members to vote individually but their votes are aggregated by their parties and cast during the party voting process. Parties splitting their votes indicate to the Clerk when called on how many votes they wish to cast for or against the question and any abstentions. They then provide the Clerk with a list showing how the vote of each member of the party was cast. These votes are recorded in the Journals of the House and in the Hansard.When we get to the committee of the whole House stage there will be multiple votes because the bill is in three parts and there may be amendments proposed. Casting split party votes on amendments is more challenging logistically. I would encourage any member planning amendments to release them as a Supplementary Order Paper as soon as possible so others can consider their positions. If a member is not sure how they will vote until they have heard the debate or wishes to react to amendments as they are presented I encourage them to be in the Chamber for the debate subject to the limits on numbers. They can then instruct their whip how they wish to cast their vote. Standing Order 145 also enables members to cast their votes as individuals separately from their parties if they so wish. That might be useful in the more dynamic committee stage of the whole House environment. Such votes are cast by a member rising in their place and indicating how they wish to vote when the Clerk calls for any other votes. Clearly before members do that they have to indicate to their party whip that they do not want to be included within the other numbers.The House seldom uses split party votes. Presiding officers will proceed more slowly than usual with votes to ensure that parties are ready to cast them. So members will have to give a little bit of patience to the whips in order to get their ducks in a row so that we get the system working well.
SpeechTUESDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2022The Speaker took the Chair at 2 p.m.KARAKIA/PRAYERSHon JACQUI DEAN (Assistant Speaker): Almighty God—[Members talk among themselves]SPEAKER: Order!Hon JACQUI DEAN: —we give thanks for the blessings which have been bestowed on us. Laying aside all personal interests we acknowledge the Queen and pray for guidance in our deliberations that we may conduct the affairs of this House with wisdom justice mercy and humility for the welfare and peace of New Zealand. Amen.SPEAKER: Happy New Year members.
Tuesday 22 November 2022 (continued on Friday 25 November 2022) - Volume 764
Organic Products and Production Bill — In Committee—Part 1