edithatogo/nz-hansard-corpus huggingface dataset:
5. Question No. 5—EducationMARJA LUBECK (Labour) to the Minister of EducationQuestion No. 5—Education5. MARJA LUBECK (Labour) to the Minister of Education: What recent report has he seen about the take-up of apprenticeships and training?Hon CHRIS HIPKINS (Minister of Education): Mr Speaker— Hon Paul Goldsmith: I'd forgotten he was the Minister of Education. Hon CHRIS HIPKINS: This week I've seen a report—well listen up you might learn something—on Radio New Zealand identifying that and I quote Trade training is booming with thousands more people signing up for apprenticeships". The report cited the Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation which is now part of Te Pūkenga saying that by the end of March it had 21600 apprentices—a 77 percent increase since the same time in 2020. For electrical apprentices the report cites the Master Electricians saying that from a base of about 4450 in January 2019 "We've rounded off 2022 with 5810 so we've had a massive increase of about 1300 apprentices in the industry which … is quite significant [for us]." Marja Lubeck: What reason is given for these significant increases?Hon CHRIS HIPKINS: The report on Radio New Zealand quoted Warwick Quinn the former head of the Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation who now works for Te Pūkenga. He said that a boom in the house construction industry combined with and I quote "a government scheme that paid employers to employ apprentices"—the Apprenticeship Boost initiative—is helping to drive numbers up. Mr Quinn also pointed out that they are being very careful to ensure that we continue the momentum whilst there is change happening and a transition happening within the sector to ensure that our apprentices can continue with their learning without disruption. Marja Lubeck: How many apprentices has the Apprenticeship Boost initiative supported to date? Hon CHRIS HIPKINS: As of the end of March over 43000 individuals have been supported in their apprenticeships through the Apprenticeship Boost initiative. Of these about 37000 of them were in their first year of an apprenticeship and about 6000 in their second year of an apprenticeship. Tackling skill shortages by boosting trades training has been one of the key priorities for this Government and we are absolutely delivering on our commitments."
2. Question No. 2—FinanceDr DUNCAN WEBB (Labour—Christchurch Central) to the Minister of FinanceQuestion No. 2—Finance2. Dr DUNCAN WEBB (Labour—Christchurch Central) to the Minister of Finance: What recent reports has he seen on the New Zealand economy?Hon GRANT ROBERTSON (Minister of Finance): ASB released its Regional Economic Scoreboard for the December quarter yesterday and the member asking the question will be pleased to know that Canterbury held on to the top spot after another strong performance followed by Manawatū-Whanganui and Northland who retained second and third place respectively. Taranaki was the biggest mover rising nine places to fourth driven by non-residential construction. The report noted employment and wage growth hit new highs. Unemployment fell to a record low 3.2 percent although it did vary across regions. ASB economists have said that We've also seen impressive wage growth over the past 12 months with the scope for further acceleration this year." While these results are promising ASB said that there are challenges from rising inflation and supply constraints both due to global factors. While economic growth is forecast to slow this year the resilience of the economy and our strong fiscal position means we are in a good place to support New Zealanders through this as we deal with these challenges.Dr Duncan Webb: What other reports has he seen on the economy?Hon GRANT ROBERTSON: The New Zealand Institute of Economic Research's (NZIER) Quarterly Survey of Business Opinion was released this morning and showed that business confidence had stabilised in the March quarter albeit at lower than long-run averages. Firms reported further weakening in their own activity but remain optimistic of recovery in the June quarter. They remain positive about hiring with a new 23 percent planning to hire in the next quarter while they have pared back some of their investment plans. The NZIER said the survey showed the damage that the global pandemic is continuing to inflict on the economy. There is going to be ongoing volatility as businesses work through inflation pressures caused by global factors. We will continue to support them New Zealand households and the rest of the economy as we ease the restrictions and open borders to skilled workers and tourists that will help our businesses recover and rebuild.Dr Duncan Webb: What reports has he seen on business investing in the economy?Hon GRANT ROBERTSON: The overseas merchandise trade figures for February show businesses are continuing to invest in the economy and New Zealand's recovery. Imports of machinery and plant rose 32 percent to $745 million in February 2022 compared with the same month a year earlier. For the February year imports in machinery and plant rose 29 percent to $10.3 billion. While the environment does remain volatile and uncertain these kind of investments are critical in improving our productivity right across New Zealand."
Thursday 7 April 2022 - Volume 758
Te Pire mō te Hararei Tūmatanui o te Kāhui o Matariki/Te Kāhui o Matariki Public Holiday Bill — Third Reading
VoteA party vote was called for on the question That Te Pire mō te Hararei Tūmatanui o te Kāhui o Matariki/Te Kāhui o Matariki Public Holiday Bill be now read a third time.Ayes 77New Zealand Labour 65; Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand 10; Te Paati Māori 2.Noes 43New Zealand National 33; ACT New Zealand 10.Motion agreed to.Bill read a third time.
11. Question No. 11—Commerce and Consumer AffairsNAISI CHEN (Labour) to the Minister of Commerce and Consumer AffairsQuestion No. 11—Commerce and Consumer Affairs11. NAISI CHEN (Labour) to the Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs: What recent announcements has he made regarding business transparency?Hon Dr DAVID CLARK (Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs): Good news: on behalf of the Government I'll be introducing a bill which will crack down on global and domestic criminals who use businesses to hide money-laundering for tax evasion and the financing of terrorism. The changes we have committed to making will make it easier to see who owns or controls a company—that is who the beneficial owners are. This is about striking the right balance. We want to ensure we don't leave the door open for criminals to take advantage whilst at the same time we want to preserve our well-earned reputation for ease of doing business.Naisi Chen: Why is it important that the Government acts?Hon Dr DAVID CLARK: The changes we're making sit in line with the Government's national security priorities to help identify threats risks and challenges to New Zealand's security and wellbeing. It'll also help to bring us in line with other jurisdictions. The Pandora and Panama papers highlighted some key vulnerabilities which need to be addressed. New Zealanders deserve to know who they're doing business with.Naisi Chen: So what changes has he proposed?Hon Dr DAVID CLARK: When searching the Companies Register it can be difficult to see the complete picture of a company's ownership structure. A unique identifier number or serial number will be assigned to all beneficial owners directors and general partners of limited partnerships. It'll mean the Companies Office will be able to confidently link individuals with all the entities they're associated with and this will be publicly available. Also the use of a director's residential address has previously been a proxy for an individual identifier but it has not always worked effectively especially where someone had multiple addresses. The implementation of the unique identifier system will make linking connected interests much simpler.
9. Question No. 9—TransportSHANAN HALBERT (Labour—Northcote) to the Minister of TransportQuestion No. 9—Transport9. SHANAN HALBERT (Labour—Northcote) to the Minister of Transport: What updates has he seen regarding the Government's Clean Car Programme?Hon MICHAEL WOOD (Minister of Transport): Very good news. I can confirm that the Clean Car Discount programme is off to an electric start with already over 12000 rebates processed and paid out. This means that more Kiwis are getting behind the wheel of more affordable zero- and low-emissions vehicles. With today's milestone electric and hybrid vehicles now make up over 1 percent of New Zealand's light vehicle fleet with monthly sales generally double or triple what we were seeing before the Clean Car Discount programme—and we have strong endorsement from the Leader of the House as well. By choosing to purchase zero- or low-emissions vehicles New Zealanders are collectively helping our nation transition to a cleaner and a more efficient vehicle fleet.Shanan Halbert: What recent changes have been made to the programme?Hon MICHAEL WOOD: Major changes came into effect from 1 April whereby the rebates will be available to a wider range of used and new fuel-efficient hybrid and electric vehicles based on their fuel efficiency. This extension will help even more Kiwis to make the change to more efficient vehicles and—given increased petrol costs—will assist them in lowering their household costs. Everyone who's buying an imported vehicle now has more opportunities to join our efforts to clean up our fleet reduce emissions and make our country more resilient against energy shocks. Our Government has a comprehensive policy in response to the climate emergency focused on the critical task of decarbonising the transport system—not just myopically building more roads.Shanan Halbert: How is the programme helping Aotearoa New Zealand achieve our emissions targets?Hon MICHAEL WOOD: New Zealand sits at the end of a long supply chain and risks becoming a dumping ground for the world's highest-emitting vehicles without these policies. The clean car scheme is helping to expedite the transition of our vehicle fleet and doing so is putting a massive dent in our vehicle emissions which make up 43 percent of New Zealand's carbon dioxide emissions. Over the life of a car clean cars are proven to have lower costs in the long run once maintenance and fuel costs are taken into account meaning they save Kiwis money as well.
6. Question No. 6—Internal AffairsDr EMILY HENDERSON (Labour—Whangārei) to the Minister of Internal AffairsQuestion No. 6—Internal Affairs6. Dr EMILY HENDERSON (Labour—Whangārei) to the Minister of Internal Affairs: What work is the Government progressing to reduce gambling harm in vulnerable communities?Hon JAN TINETTI (Minister of Internal Affairs): I have announced a review of the regulation of class 4 gaming machines otherwise known as pokies". Pokies are known to be the most harmful form of land-based gambling in Aotearoa with one in five players considered to be at risk from gambling harm. The review which is now under way aims to target and reduce harms experienced by some who use pokies and those close to them. As the Minister of Internal Affairs I am committed to ensuring our regulations are working to reduce harm as much as possible and we have the necessary enforcement tools for non-compliance.Dr Emily Henderson: Why is a review of class 4 gambling machines needed?Hon JAN TINETTI: Harm caused by pokies gambling contributes to the majority of referrals to gambling treatment providers. We know it's a major cause of second-hand gambling harm experienced by a gambler's whānau and friends. Data from the 2020 Health and Lifestyles Survey indicates that about 10 percent of New Zealanders use pokies. While some may consider pokies a form of recreational fun for far too many Kiwis and their families they cause serious mental financial and social harms. We also know that gambling harm tends to adversely affect those who can least afford it and may already be experiencing social or financial challenges. That is why I'm taking action to ensure our legislation is fit for purpose and appropriate interventions are in place to reduce harm.Dr Emily Henderson: What is in scope of the review?Hon JAN TINETTI: The review will bring greater clarity around what venues need to do to identify and support at-risk gamblers. We're also looking at pokie machine features and technology options as well as strengthening enforcement for non-compliance. There is a focus on prescriptive tools that will discourage continuous harmful gambling. The discussion document is publicly available now and I encourage anyone who has been affected by gambling harm or knows someone who has to make a submission. We have a chance to improve lives and make meaningful change. Feedback from public consultation in addition to harm treatment providers societies and gambling venues will help us create regulations informed by gamblers their whānau and friends and people who work with those experiencing harm."
4. Question No. 4—EnvironmentBARBARA EDMONDS (Labour—Mana) to the Minister for the EnvironmentQuestion No. 4—Environment4. BARBARA EDMONDS (Labour—Mana) to the Minister for the Environment: What announcements has the Government made about supporting the restoration of waterways?Hon DAVID PARKER (Minister for the Environment): Today the Government announced a Jobs for Nature project in partnership with Porirua City Council Ngāti Toa and Sustainable Coastlines to restore the health of the Porirua Harbour. Porirua Harbour is the largest estuary in the lower North Island and once was plentiful with pipi mussels oyster and tuna. I've just come back from the estuary. It is obvious that the tens of thousands of tonnes of sediment from road and subdivision earthworks and some agricultural practices are degrading the estuary. Remedial action is clearly needed and I commend the efforts of the local community.Barbara Edmonds: How will the Jobs for Nature project support employment and improved environmental outcomes in Porirua?Hon DAVID PARKER: This is a long-term project. It will plant some 630000 plants in many kilometres of riparian planting and fencing as well as fund weed and pest control. An integral part of the programme is providing training and skills that improve capability. The funding will also support the Integrated Catchment Management Plan. Fine-scale LiDAR data for every stream and all parts of the harbour enabled by the Provincial Growth Fund is helping drive down costs for this project while also assisting developers in the community. Coupled with the training this project is driving productivity upwards as well as improved environmental outcomes.Barbara Edmonds: How is the Jobs for Nature programme tracking in its first 18 months?Hon DAVID PARKER: Well it's having a significant impact on the environment and our communities over the last year and a half it's been running. As of December 2021 the programme has funded over 380 projects with more than 7000 people employed. This progress is great to see. Across all these projects over 4 million plants have gone into the ground with many freshwater habitats being restored. It's leveraging council private sector and community action to help clean up our environment and improve our waterways.
1. Question No. 1—EducationANGELA ROBERTS (Labour) to the Minister of EducationORAL QUESTIONSQUESTIONS TO MINISTERSQuestion No. 1—Education1. ANGELA ROBERTS (Labour) to the Minister of Education: What is the Government doing to encourage healthy drinks in schools?Hon CHRIS HIPKINS (Minister of Education): This morning I announced that we're beginning public consultation on a proposal for primary schools to only offer healthy drinks. We know that if kids eat and drink well there are a myriad of benefits and good outcomes for learning. While some schools have already seen these results and chosen to put their own healthy drinks policies in place we want to hear what people think about whether we can replicate those benefits across all primary schools and all young people parents and teachers. Angela Roberts: Why does the Minister consider a greater emphasis on healthy drinks in schools to be important at this time?Hon CHRIS HIPKINS: Research shows us that dental decay is now the most common disease reported amongst children in New Zealand and rates of obesity amongst CHILDREN have increased significantly between September 2020 and August 2021. Further sugar-sweetened beverages account for more than a quarter of a child's sugar intake here in New Zealand. That's why we want to ask what people think about all primary schools offering only healthy drinks—healthy drinks being defined as water milk and non-dairy milk alternatives". Angela Roberts: What is his approach to healthy drinks in secondary schools?Hon CHRIS HIPKINS: The initial proposal—the one that we're consulting on—is for healthy drinks in primary schools. Evidence shows that the earlier in a child's development that healthy habits can be encouraged the better. However the Government is also considering whether a similar policy could be considered in the future in secondary schools and we want to get feedback on that as well including from schools and communities about what barriers might exist to implementing such a policy. The consultation's being run by the Ministry of Education; it is open for eight weeks up until 2 June."
Wednesday 6 April 2022 - Volume 758
Unit Titles (Strengthening Body Corporate Governance and Other Matters) Amendment Bill — Second Reading
VoteA party vote was called for on the question That the amendments recommended by the Finance and Expenditure Committee by majority be agreed to.Ayes 110New Zealand Labour 65; New Zealand National 33; ACT New Zealand 10; Te Paati Māori 2.Noes 10Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand 10.Amendments agreed to.Bill read a second time.
Rotorua District Council (Representation Arrangements) Bill — First Reading
VoteA party vote was called for on the question That the Rotorua District Council (Representation Arrangements) Bill be now read a first time.Ayes 77New Zealand Labour 65; Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand 10; Te Paati Māori 2.Noes 43New Zealand National 33; ACT New Zealand 10.Motion agreed to.Bill read a first time.ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Hon Jacqui Dean): The question is That the Rotorua District Council (Representation Arrangements) Bill be considered by the Māori Affairs Committee.Motion agreed to.
12. Question No. 12—Workplace Relations and SafetyCAMILLA BELICH (Labour) to the Minister for Workplace Relations and SafetyQuestion No. 12—Workplace Relations and Safety12. CAMILLA BELICH (Labour) to the Minister for Workplace Relations and Safety: How will Fair Pay Agreements improve outcomes for those on lower incomes? Hon MICHAEL WOOD (Minister for Workplace Relations and Safety): In yesterday's first reading of the Fair Pay Agreements Bill we heard stories of front-line workers in some of our lowest-paid jobs: security guards supermarket workers and cleaners. The contribution of Kiwis performing some of the most essential work in our country has been systematically undervalued for too long. The Fair Pay Agreements Bill is about setting minimum pay and conditions for these types of work to improve outcomes for those on lower outcomes and in turn create fairer safer and more productive workplaces. Combined with other Government policies such as increases to the minimum wage which have increased the wages of minimum-wage workers by $218 per week since 2017 this shows the Government's commitment to supporting New Zealanders on low to middle incomes boosting wages and productivity. Camilla Belich: How do fair pay agreements encourage higher productivity? Hon MICHAEL WOOD: The Fair Pay Agreement Working Group chaired by the Rt Hon Jim Bolger identified that sector-based bargaining provides the opportunity for employers to invest and engage without the fear of being undercut by other employers engaged in a race to the bottom on wages. The working group considered that there may be mutual benefits for workers and employers through increased worker engagement increased productivity and better workplaces. It doesn't take a giant leap to recognise that a more engaged workforce that values their work and is compensated fairly is likely to be more motivated and productive. We see a good example in Australia where with sector-based bargaining there for the past 40 years they have a rate of labour productivity far higher than New Zealand does currently. Camilla Belich: Will fair pay agreements result in compulsory unionism and strike action by workers? Hon MICHAEL WOOD: Categorically no. The bill is explicit in its requirements that unionism remains voluntary and that the benefits of fair pay agreements apply to members of unions and people who are not members of unions. It also explicitly prevents recourse to industrial action either by employers or employees. Any information to the contrary is categorically false and while I expect there to be vigorous debate around this issue I encourage anyone engaged in the debate to do so on the merit and substance of the bill to deal with the problems of low wages in New Zealand that we are trying to resolve and not to engage in misinformation.
9. Question No. 9—EnvironmentRACHEL BROOKING (Labour) to the Minister for the EnvironmentQuestion No. 9—Environment9. RACHEL BROOKING (Labour) to the Minister for the Environment: How is the Government improving the planning system to build more houses and infrastructure?Hon DAVID PARKER (Minister for the Environment): The Government has removed barriers within our planning system enabling the building of more houses and infrastructure. Since 2017 the number of houses consented annually in Auckland has doubled from 10000 to over 20000 with townhouses and flats increasing fivefold from 2000 to 10000 per annum. This Government has ensured that our major cities must enable further intensification in their plans by August 2022. Under the new rules up to three homes three stories high can be built on most sites without the need for a resource consent and I acknowledge the support of the National Green and Māori Parties for this significant change to planning laws. We're far from done. We plan to introduce legislation this year that will repeal and replace the Resource Management Act (RMA).Rachel Brooking: What reports has he received about the inadequacy of New Zealand's planning system?Hon DAVID PARKER: I'm sure that many members will have read with interest the report that came from the Infrastructure Commission this week which found that New Zealand's prohibitively expensive housing market could have been prevented by congestion mitigation policies and less restrictive planning rules." The commission says that when urban planning policies limit development up in the centre of the city or out at the fringes it leads to both reduced housing supply and higher housing prices. They also note that unless the planning system is very specific about prioritising housing and infrastructure as core objectives amenity concerns about urban and natural character will prevail over building the homes that New Zealanders need. The commission is correct and prioritising a massive increase in housing infrastructure is a focus of the planning system reforms.Rachel Brooking: How will the repeal and replacement of the RMA enable more houses and infrastructure?Hon DAVID PARKER: The RMA takes too long costs too much and hasn't protected the environment. It has imposed significant costs on both the natural environment and developers by often leaving individual consenting decisions to resolve higher-level planning issues enabling nimbyism to strangle housing. The reform will create more certainty about what development will be permitted to take place reducing costs and delays for developers and other participants and further increasing housing supply."
4. Question No. 4—Energy and ResourcesARENA WILLIAMS (Labour—Manurewa) to the Minister of Energy and ResourcesQuestion No. 4—Energy and Resources4. ARENA WILLIAMS (Labour—Manurewa) to the Minister of Energy and Resources: What recent announcements has the Government made on renewable energy for Māori and public housing?Hon Dr MEGAN WOODS (Minister of Energy and Resources): One hundred and eighty families living in Māori and public homes are set to benefit from locally generated clean cheap power as a result of Government funding for small-scale renewable energy trials. This includes 12 projects to develop renewable products which will also help to bring energy independence to remote communities. This programme is in addition to other Government action to support people with their energy costs including the winter energy payment Warmer Kiwi Homes and cutting petrol excise by 25c per litre.Arena Williams: What are some examples of projects previously funded by the Māori Housing Renewable Energy Fund?Hon Dr MEGAN WOODS: One example is Te Arawa Whānau Ora who installed solar panels on 14 homes around Rotorua last year. Over summer those households saved on average about $100 on their monthly power bills—a reduction of between 30 and 50 percent. These projects also support broader energy benefits such as supporting Māori energy businesses building skills and enabling mana whenua to return to traditional energy sources.Arena Williams: What else is the Government doing to increase the uptake of renewable energy for public housing?Hon Dr MEGAN WOODS: Kāinga Ora is currently trialling solar panels on 100 public homes in Lower Hutt and Porirua. These are expected to be installed by October. Kāinga Ora is planning further solar installations throughout the country. By 2024 approximately 1000 public homes will be fitted with renewable energy systems; 400 properties are already committed to across Whangārei Christchurch Nelson Napier and Auckland.Chris Bishop: What steps if any has the Minister taken to make sure that any public announcements around Kāinga Ora comply with public sector neutrality particularly concerning Labour Party MPs and candidates?Hon Dr MEGAN WOODS: I'm sure the Minister of Energy and Resources would be happy to talk to the Minister of Housing but these steps have been well traversed by the Minister of Housing in this House including conversations—SPEAKER: I shouldn't have allowed the question. I apologise.
2. Question No. 2—FinanceBARBARA EDMONDS (Labour—Mana) to the Minister of FinanceQuestion No. 2—Finance2. BARBARA EDMONDS (Labour—Mana) to the Minister of Finance: What recent reports has he seen on the New Zealand economy?Hon GRANT ROBERTSON (Minister of Finance): Last week's Xero's small-business index bounced back in February as strong sales supported growth as firms grappled with the initial challenge of Omicron. The index was well above average at 114.5 largely driven by small-business sales and wage growth. Sales surged 13.3 percent year on year led by the construction and manufacturing sectors. Hospitality was the only sector to see a decline. Wage growth picked up pace to 4.3 percent—compared to 3.8 percent in January—led by construction and hospitality. Job growth was 3.3 percent. Xero said it was encouraging to see our small-business community performing well over February but noted that there are challenges—particularly for the hospitality sector—and that we needed to be doing everything we can to support those small businesses as we have been doing.Barbara Edmonds: What reports has he seen on the support available for businesses dealing with Omicron?Hon GRANT ROBERTSON: Well the Government's targeted COVID support payment is helping viable but vulnerable businesses through Omicron. So far a total of $956 million has been paid out under the three fortnightly COVID support payments to 193233 applicants. Auckland has received 53 percent of the payments going by business followed by Christchurch on 9 percent and Wellington on 8 percent. By sector the accommodation and hospitality sector received 16 percent; construction 14 percent; and retail trade 8 percent. This is about providing cash flow and confidence and helping to protect jobs and support New Zealand businesses through this very difficult time.Barbara Edmonds: What other reports has he seen on the economy?Hon GRANT ROBERTSON: Well the export sector is continuing to support the economy with exports rising 22 percent to $5.5 billion in February. The main contribution once again came from dairy products which rose 37 percent to $1.7 billion in the month led by higher prices for milk powder and butter. Meat sector sales rose 21 percent to $981 million while mechanical machinery and equipment rose 29 percent to $151 million. On an annual basis exports were up 9.8 percent to $64.9 billion. Our exporters are contributing strongly to the economy and I'm sure all members of this House would like to thank them for their work in such a volatile and uncertain environment.
Tuesday 5 April 2022 (continued on Wednesday 6 April 2022) - Volume 758
Road User Charges (Temporary RUC Reduction Scheme) Amendment Bill — Third Reading (continued)
VoteA party vote was called for on the question That the Road User Charges (Temporary RUC Reduction Scheme) Amendment Bill be now read a third time.Ayes 110New Zealand Labour 65; New Zealand National 33; ACT New Zealand 10; Te Paati Māori 2.Noes 10Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand 10.Motion agreed to.Bill read a third time.ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Hon Jacqui Dean): Urgency is concluded and the House stands adjourned until 2 p.m. this afternoon.The House adjourned at 9.07 a.m. (Wednesday)
Tuesday 5 April 2022 - Volume 758
Road User Charges (Temporary RUC Reduction Scheme) Amendment Bill — In Committee—Clause 4
VoteCHAIRPERSON (Hon Jacqui Dean): The question is that Simeon Brown's tabled amendment to clause 4 replacing new section 42A(1)(a) to read beginning on 14 March 2022" be agreed to.A party vote was called for on the question That the amendment be agreed to.Ayes 43New Zealand National 33; ACT New Zealand 10.Noes 75New Zealand Labour 65; Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand 10.Amendment not agreed to.CHAIRPERSON (Hon Jacqui Dean): The question is that Simeon Brown's tabled amendment to clause 4 replacing new section 42A(1)(a) to read "beginning on the day after Royal assent" be agreed to.A party vote was called for on the question That the amendment be agreed to.Ayes 43New Zealand National 33; ACT New Zealand 10.Noes 75New Zealand Labour 65; Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand 10.Amendment not agreed to.CHAIRPERSON (Hon Jacqui Dean): The question is that Simeon Brown's tabled amendment to clause 4 to replace new section 42B(3)(a) be agreed to.A party vote was called for on the question That the amendment be agreed to.Ayes 43New Zealand National 33; ACT New Zealand 10.Noes 75New Zealand Labour 65; Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand 10.Amendment not agreed to.CHAIRPERSON (Hon Jacqui Dean): The question is that Simeon Brown's tabled amendment to clause 4 to insert new section 42CC be agreed to.A party vote was called for on the question That the amendment be agreed to.Ayes 43New Zealand National 33; ACT New Zealand 10.Noes 75New Zealand Labour 65; Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand 10.Amendment not agreed to.CHAIRPERSON (Hon Jacqui Dean): The question is that Simeon Brown's tabled amendment to clause 4 to delete new sections 42D and 42E be agreed to.A party vote was called for on the question That the amendment be agreed to.Ayes 43New Zealand National 33; ACT New Zealand 10.Noes 75New Zealand Labour 65; Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand 10.Amendment not agreed to.Clause 4 agreed to.Bill to be reported without amendment.House resumed."
Road User Charges (Temporary RUC Reduction Scheme) Amendment Bill — Second Reading
VoteA party vote was called for on the question That Road User Charges (Temporary RUC Reduction Scheme) Amendment Bill be now read a second time.Ayes 110New Zealand Labour 65; New Zealand National 33; ACT New Zealand 10; Te Paati Māori 2.Noes 10Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand 10.Motion agreed to.Bill read a second time.ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Hon Jenny Salesa): The Road User Charges (Temporary RUC Reduction Scheme) Amendment Bill is set down for committee stage forthwith. I declare the House in committee for consideration of that bill.
VoteA party vote was called for on the question That the Road User Charges (Temporary RUC Reduction Scheme) Amendment Bill be now read a first time.Ayes 110New Zealand Labour 65; New Zealand National 33; ACT New Zealand 10; Te Paati Māori 2.Noes 10Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand 10.Motion agreed to.Bill read a first time.
Road User Charges (Temporary RUC Reduction Scheme) Amendment Bill — First Reading
Valedictory Statement — Louisa Wall
SpeechVALEDICTORY STATEMENTSSPEAKER: Members in accordance with a determination of the Business Committee I call on Louisa Wall to make her valedictory statement.
White HelenHELEN WHITE (Labour): This is a very sensible piece of legislation. It's very practical. It supports our courts. It supports all the participants in it. I commend this bill to the House.
SpeechDr EMILY HENDERSON (Labour—Whangārei): I reiterate the words of my colleague Tangi Utikere and my other colleagues on this side of the House. I bring to this House further the information from discussions with my colleagues back at the criminal bar who have said what they want is for the judiciary to have the certainty to continue to innovate without creating uncertainty where they feel obliged to mince their words—they want this bill. I commend it to the House.
Utikere TangiTANGI UTIKERE (Labour—Palmerston North): Tēnā koe Mr Speaker. I just intend to take a very brief call. Colleagues on this side of the House have indicated I think the position for the Government and my colleague actually Vanushi Walters touching on the certainty this will provide—not just the certainty moving forward but the flexibility within the confines of a courtroom environment. It's appropriate I think that that judicial discretion remains there. It's the role of the judiciary and the heads of bench to determine those matters. Can I finally just acknowledge the Minister—Minister Faafoi—for his leadership in this particular space. I commend the bill to the House.
SpeechVANUSHI WALTERS (Labour—Upper Harbour): Thank you Mr Speaker. I'll take a very brief call. We are of course very delighted to see the recent shift to orange but there are still foreseeable risks in terms of COVID. There are also circumstances that the courts currently need to address in terms of COVID and my colleague Golriz Ghahraman referred to those. This bill allows certainty of the courts' powers; it allows consistency in terms of the powers allocated to courts as well as other decision makers; and it allows the courts to respond to access to justice needs particularly to those who have acute vulnerabilities when it comes to COVID. I commend this bill to the House.
Ghahraman GolrizGOLRIZ GHAHRAMAN (Green): Thank you Mr Speaker. This is a very straightforward bill. Members of the judiciary do already have discretion to govern for health and safety in their courtrooms. This bill just extends that existing discretion to governing the courtroom to be safe in terms of the COVID-19 pandemic.It is the case that the pandemic is not over. We do need to continue providing for this type of discretion. It's also the case that those who work in our justice sector are actually essential workers. They don't have a choice about coming to work; whether it's the court takers the registrars judges the defence counsel members of the police force or prosecutors. It's also the case that those who are arrested and charged witnesses and victims don't have a choice but to interact in a confined space in circumstances where they may need further protection. That goes for jurors of course as well.So this provides for judges to exercise their discretion in terms of spacing in terms of masks—it's not a vaccine mandate—and it allows for people who need to opt out to apply for that and for a member of the judiciary or a judiciary officer presiding to make decisions around that.As an immunocompromised person who previously worked in the justice sector I hugely appreciate that this bill will be a relief. I also want to notice that the community most disproportionately targeted by our system of justice—that is Māori—are particularly at risk of COVID-19 so not passing a bill like this would have been callous. I do commend it to the House.
Williams ArenaARENA WILLIAMS (Labour—Manurewa): Tēnā koe e te Māngai o te Whare. This is a straightforward bill and so I will make my contribution straightforward. It supplements the ability of the judiciary and the ministry to respond to safety and security risks in the courts at a time when there is an incredible level of uncertainty in our courts and the need for more flexibility. This makes a real change for people's lives like my constituent Eileen who reached out to her local MP to help her navigate how her and her family who had been infected with COVID-19 were meant to apply to be able to leave their jury service duties. It was important for Eileen and this is important. We're seeing a Government that's committed to a better court system in enabling some of those changes that need to be made now and one that is committed to access to justice for everyone whether they are people with vulnerabilities who cannot come to court or people who are legally required to be there and need to be kept safe. That is why I commend this bill to the House.
Andersen GinnyGINNY ANDERSEN (Labour—Hutt South) (remote): Tēnā koe e te Māngai o te Whare tēnā koe. My contribution on this bill is brief. The COVID-19 Response (Courts Safety) Legislation Bill is important; the Government is progressing this legislation most importantly to ensure that the courts can continue to operate safely and effectively as COVID-19 spreads in our communities.Access to justice through the courts is vital to a fair and democratic society. To date measures to keep COVID-19 out of the courts have largely worked. However additional safety requirements are needed to manage transmission risks under the COVID-19 Protection Framework as we've got more people who are active and while there is COVID-19 actively being transmitted within our communities.The Government has therefore agreed to make legislative changes that will apply during the COVID-19 pandemic. These changes will strengthen the existing ability of our judiciary and the ministry to set and enforce conditions people must meet when they are entering and remaining in any court—and also in tribunals.It will enable the judiciary to set additional conditions for selecting and managing juries to reduce close and prolonged mixing of juries. These changes will also mean that jury selection can take place outside of court buildings where alternative venues need to be used to reduce close physical contact between jurors. These changes are important because they promote access to justice through the courts. We see this as a cornerstone of a fair and democratic society.I would like to acknowledge the Minister the Hon Kris Faafoi for the quick shepherding of this bill through the House the officials who have worked incredibly hard to make all of this come together quickly those submitters who took the time to put their views forward to the committee and my fellow Justice Committee members for working hard through this.This is a good bill it will continue to make sure our courts are operating safely and fairly under a COVID-19 pandemic and I commend it to the House.
Rurawhe Adrian; Hipkins ChrisAPPOINTMENTSParliamentary Commissioner for the EnvironmentDEPUTY SPEAKER: I call the Hon Chris Hipkins and I encourage members leaving to do so quickly and quietly.Hon CHRIS HIPKINS (Leader of the House): I move That pursuant to section 6(1) of the Environment Act 1986 the House recommend to the Governor-General that Rt Hon Simon David Upton be reappointed as the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment for a term of 5 years with effect from 9 October 2022.Motion agreed to.
Urgent Debates Declined — Supreme Court—Extradition Judgment
Seymour DavidDAVID SEYMOUR (Leader—ACT): I raise a point of order Mr Speaker. DEPUTY SPEAKER: I would hope we're not going to debate this Mr Seymour so be careful. Point of order David Seymour.DAVID SEYMOUR: In the hope of being helpful it's a particular case of recent occurrence involving ministerial responsibility—DEPUTY SPEAKER: No that's—no no no. That is definitely unhelpful.
van Velden BrookeBROOKE VAN VELDEN (Deputy Leader—ACT): Point of order Mr Speaker. My letter about the urgent debate application was specifically not about the court making its ruling but about the fact that the court has now remitted that back to the Minister of Justice and asked the Minister of Justice to reconsider that issue.Chris Bishop: Speaking to the point of order?DEPUTY SPEAKER: I don't really need the help but Chris Bishop.CHRIS BISHOP (National): Isn't the point sir that there has to be a ministerial decision and there is no ministerial decision so I don't see what the issue is.DEPUTY SPEAKER: Yes that's exactly correct and that was the ruling. So my ruling has been made on the matter. If the Minister were to make a decision that might be considered debateable and it might have been considered debateable at the time the decision was made but it was made in 2016.
Rurawhe AdrianURGENT DEBATES DECLINEDSupreme Court—Extradition JudgmentDEPUTY SPEAKER: I have received a letter from Brooke van Velden seeking to debate under Standing Order 399 an extradition decision by the Minister of Justice following a judgment of the Supreme Court. Under our system of Government the decision of a court is not a matter for which any Minister of the Crown has responsibility Speakers' ruling 202/3. The Minister of Justice's decision on this matter which—Order! I'm on my feet for those people talking. The Minister of Justice's decision on this matter which has been reinstated by the court was made in 2016. The Minister has not made any further decisions on the matter. The urgent debate procedure is a means of debating matters that have occurred recently; it is not a means of debating matters that occurred many years ago or that might occur in the future Speakers' ruling 205/3. Therefore the application is declined.
Rurawhe AdrianPETITIONS PAPERS SELECT COMMITTEE REPORTS AND INTRODUCTION OF BILLSDEPUTY SPEAKER: No bills have been introduced. Petitions have been delivered to the Clerk for presentation.CLERK: Petition of Brian Webb requesting that the House pass legislation that makes it mandatory for all political parties to work together to deal with national emergenciespetition of Greenpeace Aotearoa requesting that the House urge the Government to impose sanctions on and immediately freeze the assets of every Russian oligarch until Russia withdraws its military invasion of Ukraine.DEPUTY SPEAKER: Those petitions stand referred to the Petitions Committee. I present the report of the Controller and Auditor-General: Tertiary education sector; what we saw in 2021. That paper is published under the authority of the House. Select committee reports have been delivered for presentation.CLERK: Report of the Health Committee on the petition of Samantha Edmundson report of the Pae Ora Legislation Committee on the Pae Ora (Healthy Futures) Billreport of the Primary Production Committee on the Animal Welfare Amendment Bill.DEPUTY SPEAKER: The bills are set down for second reading.
Shaw James; Hipkins ChrisHon JAMES SHAW (Co-Leader—Green): Thank you Mr Speaker. I wonder if the Government's had sufficient time to chew the cud on the Organic Products Bill which of course reported back from select committee 13 months ago.Hon CHRIS HIPKINS (Leader of the House): It does remain on the Government's legislative programme but at this point I can't give the member a firm timetable for it.
Hipkins Chris; Bishop ChrisBUSINESS STATEMENTHon CHRIS HIPKINS (Leader of the House): Thank you Mr Speaker. Today the House will adjourn until Tuesday 3 May. In that week the annual review debate will conclude with appearances from a further six Ministers. Other legislation to be considered will include the second reading of the Pae Ora (Healthy Futures) Bill and the first reading of the Fisheries Amendment Bill. Wednesday 4 May will be a members' day.CHRIS BISHOP (National): Thank you to the Leader of the House for that update. I'm aware that members are particularly interested in a bill called the Firearms Prohibition Orders Legislation Bill. I understand some Ministers regard the bill as having been passed already but it is in fact at select committee and I was wondering if the Leader of the House would indicate if the Government would be giving priority to the passage of that bill when it comes back from committee.Hon CHRIS HIPKINS (Leader of the House): It very much depends on the shape of the bill when it gets back from select committee. In cases where bills don't need further amendment they tend to be easier to progress. Where the select committee doesn't bring the bill back to the House ready to be passed and further amendments are required then they tend to take longer.
Motions — Te Matatini ki te Ao International Māori Performing Arts Festival—50th Anniversary
Ngarewa-Packer DebbieMOTIONSMatatini—50th AnniversaryDEBBIE NGAREWA-PACKER (Co-Leader—Te Paati Māori) (remote): Point of order Mr Speaker. I seek leave to move a motion without notice or debate to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Te Matatini.DEPUTY SPEAKER: Leave is sought for that purpose. Is there any objection? There appears to be none.DEBBIE NGAREWA-PACKER: I move That this House recognise the 50th anniversary of Te Matatini ki te Ao International Māori Performing Arts Festival that it acknowledge its incredible commitment to showcase Māori excellence and bring Te Ao Māori together celebrate its extraordinary contribution to the revival of te reo Māori and tikanga and thank the thousands of performers tutors organisers over decades who have enriched the cultural identity of Aotearoa.Motion agreed to.
Rurawhe AdrianTHURSDAY 14 APRIL 2022The Deputy Speaker took the Chair at 2 p.m.KARAKIA/PRAYERSDEPUTY SPEAKER: 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.[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.]
Improving Arrangements for Surrogacy Bill — First Reading
Rurawhe AdrianREPORT OF COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE HOUSECHAIRPERSON (Adrian Rurawhe): Mr Speaker the committee has considered the Human Rights (Disability Assist Dogs Non-Discrimination) Amendment Bill and reports it without amendment. The committee has also considered the Unit Titles (Strengthening Body Corporate Governance and Other Matters) Amendment Bill and reports it with amendment. The committee has considered the Local Government (Pecuniary Interests Register) Amendment Bill and reports it with amendment. Mr Speaker I move That the report be adopted.Motion agreed to.Report adopted.
Mooney JosephJOSEPH MOONEY (National—Southland): I move That the question be now put.Motion agreed to.
Mooney JosephJOSEPH MOONEY (National—Southland): I move That the question be now put.