edithatogo/nz-hansard-corpus huggingface dataset:
Penk ChrisCHRIS PENK (National—Helensville): Thank you Madam Deputy Speaker. It's a pleasure to rise to take the second half of a split call on the Brokering (Weapons and Related Items) Controls Bill. If I were to add a footnote to the title of the bill it would be that it's a hand to head off a body of arms which I might say is about half a dozen corporal metaphors if I were to go out on a limb.We support this bill on this side of the House. Indeed we introduced it into the House in the previous Parliament and as the speaker prior to me has noted with whom I am sharing this split call it does allow us to fulfil international obligations specifically the Arms Trade Treaty which we joined in 2014.Kieran McAnulty: Great speech.CHRIS PENK: So for that reason alone but others as well as we shall see—which Mr McAnulty's very anxious to hear—it is indeed a good bill.It seems to me a well-structured bill because it goes to the entity and also the activity of those who would broker arms and indeed the activity itself. So respectively it calls upon a person which is either a natural person or of course a company or other legal entity that would broker arms for the registration of that entity to do these things but also the doing of the things themselves the activity is also regulated—well in fact it is legislated for but is to be controlled by the mechanism of a permitting and consenting regime.In order to ensure compliance with the law the bill creates various offences both in the criminal and civil domains according to whether mere technical breaches are undertaken or more serious breaches of the particular offences in the bill. So without going through those exhaustively I might note that engaging in brokering without being registered is in itself an offence as is the breach of conditions that are set in a permit that might have been quite rightly obtained but not adhered to subsequent to the fact of it being obtained. Similarly failing to produce records—keep records or produce records I should add—or providing false or misleading information in relation to the activities of that entity are also offences. So it seems to me appropriate that we have mechanisms in the bill to ensure that it is well policed.The elements of the offence considering those carefully was an aspect of the select committee's consideration. I was pleased to be a very small part of that. That's been discussed at some length by previous speakers so I shan't take any more of the House's time in saying that I join my colleagues on this side of the House—and indeed it seems the other—in commending the bill to the House.
Mitchell MarkHon MARK MITCHELL (National—Rodney): Thank you Madam Assistant Speaker. It's a pleasure to take a call on this the Brokering (Weapons and Related Items) Controls Bill. Although I sat for a short time on the Foreign Affairs Defence and Trade Committee I didn't actually get to do any work on this bill but I'm very pleased—I'm very pleased—to take a call on it.This is actually a really important issue and one that I'm really pleased that we as a country have decided to address. I want to acknowledge the Hon Gerry Brownlee because it was him as Foreign Minister that introduced this bill to the House and of course to the select committee process.The reason why I think it's very important is if we look at the history over the last 20 or 30 years globally—if we just go back 30 years—we see the amount of conflict around the world and the real issue that communities face with the illegal trade of weapons and arms across what have been pretty porous borders. Actually if we're really honest about it the international community probably hasn't been as good as it could be in terms of policing that. It's very good to see that in the last decade especially with the serious implementation of end-user certificates countries now are really starting to tighten up and police who's actually trading and brokering arms where those arms are ending up and whether they're being used for a legitimate purpose. So I welcome the bill. It's a very good bill and as a country we're sending a very positive signal that we're going to regulate our own industry.There was a comment made by the Hon Todd McClay referring to a statement by the Hon Ron Mark referring to us as peaceniks and the fact that we like to dance around the maypole and sing Kumbaya". But actually this is a pretty serious bill and I would hazard a guess that as his leader the Rt Hon Winston Peters is our Foreign Minister who stood in this House and delivered a serious speech for 15 minutes outlining for us very clearly the importance of this bill to us as a country I would assume that the Hon Ron Mark will now change his position and he will be voting for it.I'm only going to take a short call. I stood to support the bill. It is a very good bill. Just very quickly in terms of our defence industry it is small but it is growing and I can say with confidence that actually the brokering of arms is not something that really is—it's not an area that our defence industry participates in at the moment. They're more involved in the development of very specific components or fuel farms or support services for our defence forces. That relationship between our New Zealand Defence Force and our defence industry has got much closer. It's healthy it's strong and they'll be welcoming the passage of this bill as well. Thank you Madam Assistant Speaker."
Amended Answers to Oral Questions — Question No. 9 to Minister
Little AndrewAMENDED ANSWERS TO ORAL QUESTIONSQuestion No. 9 to MinisterHon ANDREW LITTLE (Minister of Justice): I seek leave to make a personal explanation to correct an answer I gave on behalf of the Minister of Energy and Resources to question No. 9 earlier today.ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Poto Williams): Leave is sought for that purpose. Is there any objection? There appears to be none.Hon ANDREW LITTLE: Thank you Madam Assistant Speaker. On behalf of the Minister of Energy and Resources earlier today I said that I spoke to Methanex before the announcement on Thursday 12 April 2018. In fact I should have said that officials spoke to Methanex on my behalf before the announcement. My first meeting—that is to say as Minister of Energy and Resources—with Methanex was on Monday 23 April 2018 although I do note that my colleague the Hon Andrew Little met with Methanex at his meeting in New Plymouth on the evening of Thursday 12 April 2018.ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Poto Williams): Thank you.
Brokering (Weapons and Related Items) Controls Bill — Second Reading
Appropriation (2016/17 Confirmation and Validation) Bill — Third Reading
Robertson GrantAPPROPRIATION (2016/17 CONFIRMATION AND VALIDATION) BILLThird ReadingHon GRANT ROBERTSON (Minister of Finance): I move That the Appropriation (2016/17 Confirmation and Validation) Bill be now read a third time. Bill read a third time.
Allan Kiritapu; Tolley AnneKIRITAPU ALLAN (Assistant Whip—Labour): I raise a point of order Madam Chairperson. I didn't want to interrupt the last member Hamish Walker during his fantastic contribution but I did just want to get some clarification as to whether or not the committee is still enabling newer members to read directly verbatim their speeches. We have had some direction in respect—CHAIRPERSON (Hon Anne Tolley): That's enough—that's OK. That's fine. Newer members I do give a bit of licence to but the member makes a good point. We are in debate—we're in committee—and it should be off the cuff. Are there no more speakers on the primary sector? OK.Reports relevant to the Primary Sector noted.
Speaker's Rulings — Parliamentary Privilege—Application
Amended Answers to Oral Questions — Question No. 7 to Minister 11 April
Motions — 2018 Commonwealth Games—New Zealand Team
Motions — Congratulatory Message—Birth of His Royal Highness Prince Louis of Cambridge
Visitors — Papua New Guinea
Obituary — Haddon Donald DSO MC ED
Brownlee Gerry; Mallard TrevorQuestion No. 12 to MinisterHon GERRY BROWNLEE (National—Ilam): I raise a point of order Mr Speaker. I'm raising this now because the point I want to make relates to question No. 12 which today you were considering may not be suitable for consideration in the House because it mentions a figure that had—according to the assessment of those who advise you—been calculated in a way that didn't give it a degree of accuracy. I'd ask you to consider all of the answers the Prime Minister gave today and to ask the question whether or not those met the same test that you are applying to us. SPEAKER: I can't tell whether the member is deliberately having me on or what the story is. The member knows that when a figure is provided as part of a question there has to be authentication. We worked through authentication to a point where there is a figure which I found acceptable—and I make it clear that that was my decision—and the member's been here long enough to know the difference between a question and an answer.
Mallard TrevorSPEAKER'S RULINGSParliamentary Privilege—ApplicationSPEAKER: I now have a ruling which I indicated that I would consider at the end of the last session. In the last sitting period and during the adjournment members raised with me the application of parliamentary privilege to a range of activities outside of proceedings of the House. Privilege belongs to the whole House and is asserted by the House and interpreted by the courts. The Speaker does not define the extent of parliamentary privilege. However it may be useful for me to comment on its application when members raise matters of privilege under Standing Order 402.A significant aspect of privilege is members' freedom of speech as encapsulated by article 9 of the Bill of Rights 1688 which states that The freedom of speech and debates or proceedings in Parliament ought not to be impeached or questioned in any court or place outside of Parliament." Another element of parliamentary privilege is the House's right to regulate its own proceedings. What constitutes proceedings has been the subject of significant dialogue between the House and the courts. In 2014 the Parliamentary Privilege Act was passed by this House to confirm that parliamentary proceedings are "all words spoken and acts done in the course of or for purposes of or incidental to the transacting of the business of the House or of a committee" (section 10(1)). Parliamentary privilege confers certain rights responsibilities and immunities on members in connection with proceedings of the House and its committees. Privilege does not extend to all the duties and activities of members of Parliament. For example statements made in public party business and constituency business would not usually be covered by privilege unless they intersected in some way with proceedings of the House or its committees. Members may wish to refer to McGee chapter 44 or Erskine May chapter 15.Clearly parliamentary privilege does not apply to every activity that a member may undertake. When I consider matters of privilege members will need to show that the matter they raise is one that relates to the proceedings of the House or its committees. I will circulate this ruling and I have asked the Clerk to offer parties or individual members training on parliamentary privilege if they so desire."
O'Connor DamienAMENDED ANSWERS TO ORAL QUESTIONSQuestion No. 7 to Minister 11 AprilHon DAMIEN O'CONNOR (Minister of Agriculture): I seek leave to make a personal statement to the House.SPEAKER: No the member has got to say in relation to what and then there's a question of leave.Hon DAMIEN O'CONNOR: In relation to an answer given to the House on 11 April.SPEAKER: In order to correct an answer—is that what the member means?Hon DAMIEN O'CONNOR: In order to correct the record.SPEAKER: OK. Is there any objection to that? There is objection. [Interruption] No? Well—Hon DAMIEN O'CONNOR: Hon Damien O'Connor: Just kidding—just kidding.SPEAKER: The Hon Damien O'Connor.Hon DAMIEN O'CONNOR: Thank you Mr Speaker. I wrote to you on 12 April noting an error in a statement I made to the House on 11 April. Because I was travelling on 12 April and in the intervening recess this is my first opportunity to correct my statement in person. On 11 April in answer to a question from the Hon Nathan Guy I said that Crown Irrigation Investments Ltd (CIIL) had not requested meetings with me as Minister regarding decisions about the Government's funding for irrigation schemes. I also said that officials had dealt with Crown Irrigation Investments Ltd which is correct. Officials have informed me that CIIL wrote to my office specifically requesting a meeting on two occasions in mid-December. Officials handled that correspondence as per the instructions in an earlier letter to CIIL dated on 7 December from shareholding Ministers telling CIIL to consult with officials from the Ministry for Primary Industries and Treasury. Prior to that on my starting as Minister in late October 2017 CIIL wrote a general introductory letter to my office. However I want to correct my initial statement to acknowledge that my office did receive meeting requests from CIIL. My previous statement was a case of human error on my part. Thank you Mr Speaker.SPEAKER: We now go to business—[Interruption] Mr Guy would you like to keep your fingers down and to settle please. Thank you.
Seymour David; Mallard TrevorDAVID SEYMOUR (Leader—ACT): On behalf of the ACT Party I'd like to join with other leaders in congratulating our Commonwealth Games team on their record-breaking performance. Can I say having recently gained a more acute appreciation for the challenge of athletic and related pursuits I can say that what those men and women have achieved for New Zealand is truly an inspiration for us all. They have worked incredibly hard. Can I make a prediction that this Commonwealth Games performance is a precursor to a record-breaking performance by our Olympians in two years' time. Thank you Mr Speaker.Hon Damien O'Connor: I raise a point of order Mr Speaker.SPEAKER: Well Mr O'Connor am I allowed to put the motion?Hon Damien O'Connor: Certainly Mr Speaker.Motion agreed to.
Davidson MaramaMARAMA DAVIDSON (Co-Leader—Green): The Greens too congratulate the members of the Commonwealth Games team on their best ever result at the 2018 Gold Coast Australia games. There were 251 athletes: 130 men and 121 women across 17 sports. That goes right back to the beginnings of their achievements in our communities; in our grassroots family and community member volunteer work which is always the starting point for our amazing athletes our amazing sports teams and the incredible achievements and the big hitting that we do for our wee country. And I want to acknowledge all of our community volunteers who do it purely for the love and passion of seeing our people achieve in the area of sports.I notice we got our first medal ever in beach volleyball and we got our first gold medal in hockey. There were a few particular moments—so many—that stood out. I of course add my congratulations to the particular teams and moments that people have already mentioned but I couldn't help but watch and court the incredible story of David Liti the New Zealand weightlifter on his gold medal win. And watching—hey 403 kilograms everybody. What did you all do today? He lifted that. First he gets it up to his chest and then I just thought I'm going to go into a heart attack." and then he had to lift it again the rest of the way and lift that 403 kilograms up into the air. And so it just made me think "What are we doing right now?" Anyway congratulations to the whole entire team right from the opening flag bearer Sophie Pascoe to the closing flag bearer Stacey Michelsen on the way that you did us proud and the way you conducted yourselves. Well done. Kia ora."
Mitchell ClaytonCLAYTON MITCHELL (NZ First): On behalf of New Zealand First and part of the Government I'd like to stand to congratulate our New Zealand team in the recent Commonwealth Games and support this motion moving forward. Particularly I'd like to acknowledge Stacey Michelsen the captain for the Black Sticks who is a very highly regarded person from Whananaki another place close to one of our member's homes.Look we've had an exceptional Commonwealth Games this year—our best result ever. There are so many golds to mention it's hard to go through them all but we've done exceptionally well in a number of sports particularly in our boxing. We've got some great results for our sevens. We've had some fantastic results with the hammer throw which is something that we haven't particularly seen a lot from in the past so well done to all those athletes.We're fifth overall out of all the Commonwealth countries—I think we've done exceptionally well—and equal to Canada. When you look at a per capita basis we're certainly batting well and truly outside of our weight class internationally. One thing that people do seem to talk about is the fact that New Zealand does bat per capita outside of its weight class but they do tend to forget Norfolk Island who did get a bronze medal and per capita outstripped the entire globe I think—with a population of around 3000 people—in picking up a bronze medal. So congratulations to Norfolk Island.Just a final note also that it was great to see that these games were broadcast live and free to air. Some of the commentary in the media was that this was not going to happen or it wasn't possible and to Mike Hosking I say Well let's see more of that." And I'm sure we're going to. But again to all of our team members our team captains and our families who support the Commonwealth Games and play a big part of our New Zealand Kiwi culture congratulations and thank you very much for doing so well."
Kaye NikkiHon NIKKI KAYE (National—Auckland Central): I am pleased to speak in support of this motion on behalf of the National Party. The party joins with the rest of New Zealand in congratulating our team on achieving their best ever away result this year. I would like to acknowledge all of the athletes who have shown their tenacity and endurance through the participation in this event. As the Minister for Sport and Recreation has already mentioned the fact that for the first time we have more than 250 athletes competing plus 11 para-athletes is a huge achievement.Our athletes collected an impressive 46 medals which is something to be proud of. It was also great to see so many New Zealanders there at the games. I was proud to be in the stands to watch as the Minister's already said the Black Sticks win their first ever gold medal. What an amazing moment that was. But also it is difficult when you try and single out particular individuals but to see Sophie Pascoe as a flag bearer for New Zealand was an incredibly inspirational moment for many New Zealanders and then to see her haul in the two medals as well. Also I want to acknowledge the iconic New Zealand sportswoman Dame Valerie Adams. It was a great moment to see her get a personal best but also to bring home a silver.I do want to take a moment as well to acknowledge Australia. It is sometimes a very competitive relationship that we have with them but they did a hugely amazing job in hosting this event and the organisation and facilities were world class. I want to extend our congratulations to the Commonwealth Games Federation Commonwealth Games Australia and the New Zealand Olympic Committee. I want to also acknowledge that while we are very proud as a country of the medals that have been won the Commonwealth Games are more than that. They are actually about national pride. It is a fact that the diversity of people that come together the nations that have some shared values and the fact that all of this contributes to national identity—that is so special.So finally it is important that New Zealand and the Parliament comes together to be proud of our team and the example that it sets for many young New Zealanders who aspire to compete in the future.
Robertson GrantCommonwealth Games 2018—Success of New Zealand TeamHon GRANT ROBERTSON (Minister for Sport and Recreation): I seek leave to move a motion without notice to congratulate the New Zealand Commonwealth Games team in their best ever away result.SPEAKER: Is there any objection to that course of action being followed? There is none.Hon GRANT ROBERTSON: I move That this House congratulate the members of the New Zealand Commonwealth team on their best ever away result.On behalf of the Government I want to acknowledge the 251 athletes who were members of this team and congratulate them collectively on their achievement. They delivered an outstanding performance achieving 15 golds 16 silvers and 15 bronze medals. Those 46 medals make it our most successful ever result at a Commonwealth Games held overseas.I want to particularly acknowledge Chef de Mission Rob Waddell and his team who created a superb team spirit. It is also fitting that we acknowledge and celebrate the coaches support staff and families who play such an important role in these triumphs and also the hard work and dedication of staff at High Performance Sport New Zealand who have supported many of these athletes.It is hard to single out any one athlete but I do want to mention a few: our flag bearer Sophie Pascoe who won two gold medals in the pool; Sam Webster and Joelle King who both won individual and team goals in cycling and squash respectively; and I don't think anyone who saw the finals of either the women's sevens or the women's hockey will forget those games in a hurry—an incredible set of performances by dedicated teams.The exceptional sporting spirit of weightlifting gold medallist David Liti was a particular highlight. Epitomising the values of respect and integrity David was awarded the overall games sportsmanship award at the closing ceremony after his kind gestures to an injured rival. These games were made even more special by the fact that all our athletes were able to compete alongside each other with an impressive group competing in para events and equal medal opportunities for men and women at the games. These were a games of inclusivity and diversity with our athletes serving as an inspiration to all New Zealanders. Once again on behalf of the Government I offer our congratulations to all the members of the 2018 Commonwealth Games team who have made us extremely proud.
Seymour DavidDAVID SEYMOUR (Leader—ACT): On behalf of the ACT Party I'd like to join with other leaders in congratulating the happy royal couple. I'd like to commend the Prime Minister on her appropriate and very Kiwi gifts that she's given on behalf of New Zealand—well done. And to young Louis we wish all the best that life has to offer. Thank you.Motion agreed to.
Davidson MaramaMARAMA DAVIDSON (Co-Leader—Green): The Green Party is proud to congratulate Prince William the Duke of Cambridge and Catherine the Duchess of Cambridge on the birth of His Royal Highness Prince Louis of Cambridge their third son who arrived at 8 pound 7 ounces I'm told—which is good which is well done.I did want to extend the celebration but also my personal sympathy to Catherine mum of the baby in having to bear the public scrutiny at such an early stage after giving birth to a child. Whatever circumstances you are born into or give birth under it will never ever eradicate the complete turmoil and exhaustion that birthing a baby is for any mother so I hope that Catherine finds some downtime to simply just be whatever shape she needs to be in to be able to care for a new baby.Rt Hon Jacinda Ardern: Hear hear!MARAMA DAVIDSON: I did want—ha ha! The Prime Minister appears to agree with this sentiment. I did want to share that I wish all children were celebrated in the House of Parliament in this fantastic way and every single child was a notice of motion. But if we don't do that we can do that in the agenda that we run in this House of Representatives instead: rather than a notice of motion for every baby we stand and rule as if every baby is a notice of motion.Lastly here's a little waiata. I didn't buy a gift but I wrote a song for my own babies and if the prince and duke and duchess would like to learn it and sing it to their baby they're more than welcome to.Pekepeke tamariki menemene maiKorikori tinana katakata maiKa haere te wā kua pau te hauHaere ki te moenga moe moe e.[Jumpy jumpy children smiling at meFull of energy laughing with meTime flies by we've run out of steamOff to bed now have sweet dreams.]Kia ora.
Bridges SimonHon SIMON BRIDGES (Leader of the Opposition): On behalf of the members on this side of the House can I with heartfelt joy join the Prime Minister in also congratulating the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge Prince William and Catherine on the birth of their beautiful bonny boy Prince Louis. Can I say to Catherine it is quite an extraordinary feat really to appear publicly only hours after the birth looking so radiant. And I'm sure that she her husband and the older siblings George and Charlotte have real as I say joy at the birth of their little one. As the father of three myself—and a newborn as well—I am sure they know like me of the challenges involved but I'm absolutely sure they will see little Louis as the blessing that he is and they can know very much that on this side of the House through this Parliament and in New Zealand we are all with them as they raise their beautiful young boy.
Ardern JacindaMOTIONSCongratulatory Message—Birth of His Royal Highness Prince Louis of CambridgeRt Hon JACINDA ARDERN (Prime Minister): I seek leave to move a motion without notice on behalf of the Government on the birth of His Royal Highness Prince Louis of Cambridge.SPEAKER: Is there any objection to that course of action being followed? There is none.Rt Hon JACINDA ARDERN: I move That the House congratulate Prince William the Duke of Cambridge and Catherine Duchess of Cambridge on the birth of His Royal Highness Prince Louis of Cambridge.Along with many people around the globe New Zealanders have witnessed and celebrated the joy that the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have clearly found with their children Prince George and Princess Charlotte. I'm very pleased to lead the House's congratulations on the birth of a third child to this close-knit family. I'm sure that the duke and duchess are cherishing this special time with their new son and no doubt Prince George and Princess Charlotte are enjoying getting to know their new little brother.New Zealand's official gift to the royal couple is a handcrafted baby blanket made from the natural wool of Corriedale sheep and a selection of New Zealand children's books. The blanket has been specially created for the prince and features a design of mānuka flowers and seed pods. Mānuka is a very special indigenous plant both beautiful and useful for its healing properties. The books have been selected for their outstanding—[Interruption] People enjoy that extra information Minister of Finance. The books have been selected for their outstanding writing and illustrations and the special insights that they give to a child's perspective of New Zealand. We of course hope that the royal family will enjoy these gifts that are uniquely representative of New Zealand and I already know that Hairy Maclary from Donaldson's Dairy is a favourite amongst the royal household.On behalf of the people of New Zealand I am pleased to be able to put on the record of this House our congratulations to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and to Prince George and Princess Charlotte. I'm sure we'll also join in congratulating Her Majesty the Queen on the birth of her sixth great-grandchild.
Mallard TrevorVISITORSPapua New Guinea—Parliament DelegationSPEAKER: I'm sure that members would wish to welcome the Hon Richard Maru Minister for National Planning and Monitoring and the Hon Benny Allen Minister for Agriculture and Livestock and their delegation from the Parliament of Papua New Guinea who are present in the gallery.
Mallard TrevorTUESDAY 1 MAY 2018The Speaker took the Chair at 2 p.m.Prayers.OBITUARIESHaddon Donald DSO MC EDSPEAKER: I regret to inform the house of the death on 23 April 2018 of Haddon Donald DSO MC ED who represented the electorate of Wairarapa from 1963 to 1969. I desire on behalf of this House to express our sense of the loss we have sustained and our sympathy with the relatives of the late former member. I now ask members to stand with me and observe a period of silence as a mark of respect for his memory.Members stood as a mark of respect.
Thursday 12 April 2018 - Volume 728
10. Health Services—BuildingsLOUISA WALL (Labour—Manurewa) to the Minister of HealthHealth Services—Buildings10. LOUISA WALL (Labour—Manurewa) to the Minister of Health: What examples of capital pressures has he seen while visiting DHBs?Hon Dr DAVID CLARK (Minister of Health): I have now visited almost all of our district health boards (DHBs) and on many occasions the state of facilities has been raised directly with me. I've seen buildings at or near their use-by date I've seen buildings that have suffered from years of deferred maintenance I've heard stories of patients being treated in corridors but most importantly I have seen staff delivering quality care despite all these challenges.Louisa Wall: What examples has he seen at Nelson Hospital?Hon Dr DAVID CLARK: Nelson Hospital has well-documented seismic issues. Its main buildings are 50 years old and will need to be replaced in time but perhaps most shocking to me was to see nurses working in corridors and using card tables as makeshift workstations. Both the staff and the patients of Nelson Hospital deserve much better.Louisa Wall: What pressures is he aware of at Capital and Coast DHB?Hon Dr DAVID CLARK: Well even Wellington Hospital—one of our most modern hospitals built under the outstanding fifth Labour Government—has its problems. Wellington Hospital has kilometre after kilometre of copper pipes and between January 2015 and October last year there were 276 leaks in those pipes and another eight leaks in January. We have a plan to fund health more sustainably. That will be evident in the upcoming Budget although we won't be able to fix all the problems we have inherited in one Budget.
9. Prisons—Prison PopulationHon DAVID BENNETT (National—Hamilton East) to the Minister of CorrectionsPrisons—Prison Population9. Hon DAVID BENNETT (National—Hamilton East) to the Minister of Corrections: When he said So we are looking at a range of options to reduce the prison population by 30 percent over 15 years" what options is he considering?Hon KELVIN DAVIS (Minister of Corrections): All of them. Hon David Bennett: If he is considering reducing the prison population has the Minister suspended any plans for the new build or extensions at Waikeria Prison given that a decision was due by the middle of April as reported by Andrew Little? Hon KELVIN DAVIS: This is a decision that's a very serious decision and one that we don't take lightly but we won't be rushed into making that decision despite the time frame we'd been given before because we are looking at all the options. Hon David Bennett: If he is considering reducing the prison population would the Minister consider having discussions with the Minister of Police on elevating police criminal prosecution thresholds? Hon KELVIN DAVIS: We'll look at all options but that's not to say that we'll implement all options. So if that's an option yeah we'll look at it. Hon David Bennett: Has the Minister had discussions with the Minister of Justice around changing bail laws for violent and serious offenders to reduce the prison population? Hon KELVIN DAVIS: Again we are looking at all the options. That's not to say that we'll implement all of the options but we'll discuss them and the bail laws is one that we have discussed we have looked at. That's not to say that we'll make any changes but it would be remiss of us not to explore all these options fully."
4. KiwiBuild—Dwelling Size and Minister's Discussions with BanksHon JUDITH COLLINS (National—Papakura) to the Minister of Housing and Urban DevelopmentKiwiBuild—Dwelling Size and Minister's Discussions with Banks4. Hon JUDITH COLLINS (National—Papakura) to the Minister of Housing and Urban Development: Does he stand by all his statements in the House and to the media?Hon PHIL TWYFORD (Minister of Housing and Urban Development): Yes in the context they were given and where they have been accurately reported.Hon Judith Collins: When he told Parliament last week in relation to the size of the KiwiBuild dwellings at Unitec Well I would note that the Unitary Plan approved by Auckland Council in mid-2016 set minimum floor sizes of 30 square metres for studio dwellings and 45 square metres for one or more bedroom dwellings." was he just "making fun" as he told media afterwards?Hon PHIL TWYFORD: I was quoting the former Minister of Finance the Hon Bill English. I was not saying what we would do.Hon Judith Collins: If as he told media last week he was just "making fun" why did he also tell media that he was in discussion with banks around changing lending criteria for dwellings of that size?Hon PHIL TWYFORD: I told media that I was in discussions with banks about lending for prefabricated housing and for multi-dwelling apartments because I am.Hon Judith Collins: Which banks has he been talking to around changing the lending criteria to suit his KiwiBuild programme?Hon PHIL TWYFORD: If the member wants to put down a written question to me about which meetings I'm having when and with whom I'll consider answering them then.Hon Judith Collins: When he told Parliament last week that the KiwiBuild dwellings at Unitec could be 30 square metres did he realise that that is smaller than the standard double-sized garage which is 36 square metres?Hon PHIL TWYFORD: I wasn't saying that would be the size of KiwiBuild dwellings. I was quoting the former Deputy Prime Minister under the National Government because he was advocating apartments of that size. I wasn't.Hon Judith Collins: If he was just "making fun" to an answer to a serious question in Parliament then was he making fun when he promised to build 16000 houses in three years and he hasn't built one yet?Hon PHIL TWYFORD: No. I was deadly serious unlike the former Government who did nothing to build affordable houses in nine years and allowed a housing crisis to spin out of control and they think it's a joke."
3. Senior Citizens—Positive Ageing StrategyDARROCH BALL (NZ First) to the Minister for SeniorsSenior Citizens—Positive Ageing Strategy3. DARROCH BALL (NZ First) to the Minister for Seniors: What announcements has she made recently regarding a new Positive Ageing Strategy for New Zealand?Hon TRACEY MARTIN (Minister for Seniors): Last Friday I attended the annual Positive Ageing Expo in Nelson to announce this Government's commitment to a new positive ageing strategy. Currently there are around 750000 people aged over 65. In 18 years there will be 1.2 million—a quarter of our population. While it's great news that more of us are living longer healthier lives than ever before it also means that there are challenges and changes to services and community that we have to consider and plan for as a nation. New Zealand needs to have a strategy and plan to help our older people live well. It needs to fit who we are how we live now which is closely connected to where we live and what is likely to happen to ensure we're in a good position to deal with the predicted demographic shifts.Darroch Ball: What are the particular areas of focus for the revised strategy?Hon TRACEY MARTIN: That will be determined by our public consultation but there are three obvious areas we need to look at. One is supporting seniors in the workforce and how business can better recruit retain and possibly re-train older citizens. We certainly don't want people over 65 to be forced to work but many of them want to and a growing number need to due to personal circumstances. Secondly we need to ensure appropriate housing options and thirdly I think we need to talk about what is the means to keep connections through our lives to stop people being isolated or lonely as they age.Darroch Ball: How will the strategy be developed?Hon TRACEY MARTIN: In the first instance by talking directly to New Zealanders to see what they want and what they expect from their Government councils and communities to have a positive and fulfilling life in their senior years. We also need to reach out to the next generation of seniors—those currently in their 40s and 50s right now—because we want this to endure. Getting this strategy is right. This strategy was originally put in place in 2001 and expired in 2010. Therefore for the last eight years the country has been running blind knowing that we are running into an ageing population where they will outnumber 15-year-olds by the time we get to 2036.
1. Budget Policy Statement—Capital and Operating AllowancesDr DEBORAH RUSSELL (Labour—New Lynn) to the Minister of FinanceORAL QUESTIONSQUESTIONS TO MINISTERSBudget Policy Statement—Capital and Operating Allowances1. Dr DEBORAH RUSSELL (Labour—New Lynn) to the Minister of Finance: What are the proposed capital and operating allowances in the 2017 Budget Policy Statement and how do these compare to previous periods?Hon GRANT ROBERTSON (Minister of Finance): The Budget Policy Statement (BPS) released in December 2017 proposed a new capital allowance of $3.4 billion in 2018 $3.4 billion in 2019 $3.1 billion in 2020 and $2.7 billion in 2021 averaging $3.15 billion each Budget. This compares to an average capital allowance of only $1.43 billion between 2009 and 2017. The BPS proposed operating allowances of $2.6 billion in 2018 and $1.875 billion in each year from 2019 to 2021 the average new operating allowance being $2.1 billion each year. This compares to an average new operating allowance of only $953 million between 2009 and 2017. These larger allowances reflect the important investments that this Government will need to make to return our public services and infrastructure to the quality that New Zealanders expect and deserve.Dr Deborah Russell: Are the proposed allowances for the next four Budgets larger than what had previously been set aside for this period and why is it important that this is the case?Hon GRANT ROBERTSON: The operating and capital allowances provided for in the Budget Policy Statement by this Government are larger than what the previous Government had proposed to invest. For example in Budget 2018 we are proposing a capital allowance of $3.4 billion where the previous Government had only proposed $2 billion. The Government can afford to make these investments because we reversed the previous Government's poorly targeted tax cuts by adopting a sensible debt reduction track and by more fairly sharing the benefits of economic growth.Dr Deborah Russell: Do the proposed capital and operating allowances allow the Government to meet the Budget responsibility rules?Hon GRANT ROBERTSON: The Government can deliver the necessary and important investments to deal with the social and infrastructure deficits we have inherited while remaining consistent with the Budget responsibility rules which ensure we manage the books responsibly. These rules are important because New Zealanders need to know that we are being careful with the country's finances and that we are prepared for future shocks—external or through natural disasters. The Government's priorities reflect a better balance between the need to invest in critical public services and to prepare for a sustainable future.
Luxton JoJO LUXTON (Labour): Tēnā koutou katoa. It gives me great pleasure to speak to this settlement bill. I wasn't on the Māori Affairs Committee but my colleagues there on the committee tell me they heard very well-thought-out and presented submissions on this bill. Therefore I do want to acknowledge all the submitters that took the time to give their thoughts and their concerns to the committee. I have looked carefully at the Māori Affairs Committee report and it seems very clear to me that the committee have given thoughtful consideration to all the concerns raised with them.The report has noted the overlapping claims. I agree that ideally overlapping claims in relation to specific redress matters be addressed through mutual agreement between the overlapping groups. I can only imagine how difficult and challenging this process must be for both parties and I wish them all the best for the future.I want to acknowledge the Ngāi Tai ki Tamaki negotiators the Crown negotiator and officials. I also acknowledge the former Minister Hon Chris Finlayson and the current Minister Hon Andrew Little. This is a very good settlement bill and it will provide excellent opportunities for Ngāi Tai ki Tamaki and their future generation. I am certain that they are looking forward to progressing their plans for the future.As the Government's final speaker on the second reading of this bill I'd like to say that Ngāi Tai ki Tamaki have waited long enough for their legislation to be passed and I don't want them to wait any longer. So I commend this bill to the House. Tēnā koutou katoa.Bill read a second time.
Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki Claims Settlement Bill — Second Reading
Bayly AndrewANDREW BAYLY (National—Hunua): Thank you Mr Assistant Speaker. It's a pleasure to be talking on this second reading of the Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki Claims Settlement Bill. Of course this iwi is based in my electorate of Hunua at the wonderful place of Maraetai where the main marae is. It's a beautiful spot. It's often seen on the Air New Zealand ads where people are jumping off a wharf into the sea. It is a gorgeous place and I drive past that area regularly.I've got to say that in my dealings with Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki particularly through Mr David Beamish around the rāhui of the cockles being picked up at Kawakawa Bay they have been very good to deal with and I commend them for some of the actions they've taken in terms of conservation.But this bill of course rightly deals with an injustice. I didn't sit on the Māori Affairs Committee but I'm glad to see that this bill is progressing through the House. Of course it reflects the signing of the initial Treaty deed by the Hon Chris Finlayson in August 2017. It's easy to focus on the value of the settlement but we know that this bill represents much more than that. The story of the alienation of property and people is one that cuts across a long history. The story that goes behind this bill is one of travesty and it is like so many other bills that we have been dealing with in terms of addressing those wrongs. It is great to see that it is being dealt with and handled with care and sensitivity.The key elements of this agreement include some very significant and notable parts of their area around Hunua particularly the land that's under the Clevedon School and the Maraetai Beach School that has been vested to the iwi but of course on a long-term lease to the Ministry of Education. They are two very fine schools.We've also included the vestment of the Te Wairoa river conservation area—a beautiful area—and a lot of work's been done on that river to improve its conservation value. The Whitford conservation area a small little area by the village and Hihiorapa Urupā otherwise known as the famous Hunua Falls scenic reserve and I'm sure many people in the House have been to those beautiful falls. It's a big attraction but it's a very significant and well-known landmark in the area. And of course Totara which is known as the Clevedon conservation areas. All of these are very special areas to everyone in that general proximity and draw a lot of visitors from across Auckland as well as other places.So I just want to lend my voice to the good work that's been done on this bill. We'd all like to see it progress more quickly and it will in time. I just finally want to acknowledge the rangatira who are here today to witness this next stage of the progression towards dealing with this injustice that I talked about at the outset. Thank you very much Mr Assistant Speaker.
Hughes GarethGARETH HUGHES (Green): Kia ora Mr Speaker. Ngā mihi nui ki a koutou. Kia ora. I rise on behalf of the Green Party to support the motion. New Zealand is a country which prides itself on its low international corruption rankings and its financial accountability and propriety. This is especially so in the public sphere. Our prosperity as a nation in fact depends upon this and international research has shown how important the accountability and transparency of institutions is to a nation's success.When it comes to the tens of billions of dollars of taxpayers' money spent every year the role of the Controller and Auditor-General is a keystone in the foundation of New Zealand's future. The Green Party is happy to support John Ryan as the new Controller and Auditor-General and looks forward to strong leadership demonstrating appropriate norms across Crown entities and taking advantage and also grappling with of new technologies like artificial intelligence and big data. We'd like to acknowledge the leadership shown by deputy Greg Schollum over the last year in difficult circumstances. We are happy to support the motion.Motion agreed to.
Appointment — Controller and Auditor-General
Mark RonHon RON MARK (NZ First): Thank you Mr Speaker. I rise on behalf of New Zealand First to make a short contribution to congratulate John Michael Ryan of Raumati for his appointment as Controller and Auditor-General. The position of Controller and Auditor-General has been vacant since Martin Matthews' departure in 2017. Mr Ryan has previously been Deputy Director-General of Corporate Services at the Ministry for Primary Industries. He also held the role of Executive Director of Corporate Services for the Capital and Coast Hutt Valley and Wairarapa District Health Boards (DHBs) during the time when I was actually fortunate enough to have been appointed by the Government of the day on to two of those DHBs and having worked on the third one of them so I am quite familiar with Mr Ryan's work ethics and expertise.New Zealand First acknowledges the hard work of Greg Schollum Deputy Controller and Auditor-General his leadership team and the wider Office of the Controller and Auditor-General while Parliament has carried out the lengthy and thorough process to appoint a new Auditor-General.The Office of the Auditor-General plays a key role in auditing New Zealand's public entities providing independent assurance that the public entities are operating and accounting for their performance properly and appropriately. Therefore New Zealand First wishes the incoming Controller and Auditor-General the very best in his new role and we look forward to seeing how he makes his mark on that organisation. Thank you.