10. Question No. 10—Diversity Inclusion and Ethnic CommunitiesIBRAHIM OMER (Labour) to the Minister for Diversity Inclusion and Ethnic CommunitiesQuestion No. 10—Diversity Inclusion and Ethnic Communities10. IBRAHIM OMER (Labour) to the Minister for Diversity Inclusion and Ethnic Communities: What recent announcement has she made about supporting former refugees recent migrants and ethnic communities into employment?Hon PRIYANCA RADHAKRISHNAN (Minister for Diversity Inclusion and Ethnic Communities): Along with Minister Sepuloni we launched the Government's Employment Action Plan for former refugees recent migrants and ethnic communities. Across Government we're committing to 22 actions to improve employment outcomes for these groups. The action plan was informed by extensive consultation with these communities and brings together current and planned programmes of work across Government to provide better support for these groups to develop skills gain work experience and move into more sustainable and rewarding work while also supporting employers to create more inclusive workplaces. It also builds on the ongoing work of the Minister for Workplace Relations and Safety Michael Wood to end migrant worker exploitation forced labour and human trafficking.Ibrahim Omer: Why is this announcement important?Hon PRIYANCA RADHAKRISHNAN: Our ethnic communities are a vital part of Aotearoa New Zealand's social fabric and economy and make up nearly 20 percent of New Zealand's total population. But despite record-low unemployment and although there are of course many who make a significant contribution to New Zealand's economy there are still too many people from our ethnic communities who continue to face systemic barriers that prevent them from accessing and progressing in the labour market. Many have spoken to me about being highly qualified for the jobs that they're applying for but not being hired. Many people report discrimination in both internal and external recruitment processes that also impact career progression and others face pay disparities. This action plan will help us tackle one of the biggest issues for our ethnic communities and takes significant steps towards ensuring the skills and experiences of these communities are recognised respected and valued. Ibrahim Omer: How will the plan improve outcomes for these communities?Hon PRIYANCA RADHAKRISHNAN: The action plan is one of seven population-specific Employment Action Plans that support this Government's wider employment strategy. Not only does it support these communities in preparing them for and connecting them with work we're working with employers in industry to increase employment opportunities for people from ethnic communities and to promote diverse and more inclusive workplaces. I want to acknowledge the fact that there have been various community groups and entities like Diversity Works and the Auckland Business Chamber who've been working towards better employment outcomes for ethnic communities and also themselves supporting more inclusive workspaces. I look forward to working alongside them. It is critical that we unlock—SPEAKER: Order! Order! The member's answer is now too long.