Rutherford TomTOM RUTHERFORD (National—Bay of Plenty): Thank you Madam Speaker. I rise today in strong support of the McLean Institute (Trust Variation) Bill. This important piece of legislation seeks to update and modernise the trust established over a century ago by Mr McLean. The bill before us today is a testament to the enduring legacy of Mr McLean's generosity and our collective responsibility to ensure his vision continues to serve those in need.The McLean Institute was established in 1909 with the noble purpose of providing assistance to women and children in difficult circumstances. However as we've heard from numerous speakers the language and provisions of the original trust deed have become outdated and restrictive. This bill seeks to address these limitations and bring the trust into the 21st century.One of the key aspects of this bill is the modernisation of the trust's purpose. The original language which referred to gentle women" and "women of refinement" no longer reflects the realities of our society today. The proposed changes will broaden the scope of the trust to assist disadvantaged women and children in the Canterbury region regardless of their background or social status. This expansion will allow the trust to address a wider range of contemporary issues facing women including mental health addiction disability trauma violence homelessness and poverty.Another crucial element of this bill is the streamlining of administrative processes. By allowing future changes to be made through the High Court rather than requiring an Act of Parliament we are ensuring that the trust can adapt more efficiently to future needs. This change will save time and resources allowing the trust to focus on its primary mission of helping those in need.The bill also updates outdated language and concepts. For example it replaces the term "unsound mind" with more appropriate and modern terminology related to capacity aligning the trust deed with current legislation such as the Trusts Act 2019. It is important to note that these changes have been carefully considered to maintain the original intent of Allan McLean's bequest. The Social Services and Community Committee have done excellent work in refining the bill ensuring that it respects Mr McLean's wishes while adapting to modern circumstances.This bill is not just about updating legal language; it's about preserving and enhancing a valuable community resource. The McLean Institute has been a beacon of hope for countless women and children in Canterbury for over a century. By passing this bill we are ensuring that it can continue to provide that support for generations to come.Moreover this legislation serves as an example of how we can honour and update philanthropic legacies. It demonstrates that the generosity of past benefactors can be adapted to meet the evolving needs of our society without losing sight of the original intent. As we consider this bill let us remember the values that inspired Allan McLean: compassion generosity and a desire to help those in need. These values are timeless even if the specific circumstances of need may change over time.In conclusion the McLean Institute (Trust Variation) Bill represents a thoughtful and necessary update to an important charitable trust. It perseveres the spirit of Allan McLean's original bequest while ensuring that the trust can effectively serve the needs of modern society. By supporting this bill we are not only honouring a legacy of support but also investing in the wellbeing of vulnerable women and children in Canterbury. I commend this bill to the House and urge all members to support its passage. Thank you."