10. Question No. 10—Research Science and InnovationDr LIZ CRAIG (Labour) to the Minister of Research Science and InnovationQuestion No. 10—Research Science and Innovation10. Dr LIZ CRAIG (Labour) to the Minister of Research Science and Innovation: What recent announcements has the Government made about a vaccine strategy for New Zealand?Hon Dr MEGAN WOODS (Minister of Research Science and Innovation): Talofa lava Mr Speaker. Today the Deputy Prime Minister the Minister of Health and I announced the COVID-19 vaccine strategy. The COVID-19 strategy aims to secure a vaccine—safe effective and in sufficient quantities—at the earliest possible time. It will enable New Zealand scientists to ramp up their important research allow New Zealand to contribute to global research efforts and explore the potential of vaccine manufacturing capability in New Zealand. We've set aside $37 million as part of the strategy which will see New Zealand collaborate on the development of diagnostics vaccines and treatments of COVID-19. The development of a vaccine is an immense global challenge and the Government's approach is recognition that this will take time cohesion and expertise from across the board from home-grown science capability to the leading role New Zealand will take in the Pacific in the distribution of the vaccine once it is discovered.Dr Liz Craig: So what are the key components of the strategy?Hon Dr MEGAN WOODS: There are five central pillars to this strategy which acknowledge the complexity and interconnectedness of the vaccine challenge. The pillars are: connecting New Zealand researchers globally to contribute to all aspects of vaccine development distribution and use; investing in research that contributes to global efforts builds relationships and supports early access to a vaccine; developing the ability to manufacture in case it is needed to secure supply; optimising regulatory approaches to ensure safety to support research and to enable domestic manufacturing; and using our purchasing arrangements managed by Pharmac to secure supply where possible and to enhance resilience. The vaccine strategy will also feed into and support immunisation strategy and planning as safe and effective vaccines are developed.Dr Liz Craig: So what role will the New Zealand research sector play in the production of a vaccine? Hon Dr MEGAN WOODS: New Zealand has a world-class research sector with a history of working with colleagues across the globe to tackle complex problems. I've been heartened to see the speed and enthusiasm with which researchers have been tackling this issue and it is this expertise that will be crucial to New Zealand securing access to a vaccine as soon as possible. It is vital that we contribute to international research efforts as well as ramping up our own research and manufacturing capability to meet demand. New Zealand scientists and researchers have already initiated early work into vaccine research and we've supported this through funding through the COVID-19 Innovation Accelerator Fund. I'm pleased to say this strategy will enable this valuable New Zealand research to continue.SPEAKER: Question No. 11 the Hon—oh sorry: Liz Craig.Dr Liz Craig: Just one final supp: how will New Zealand play a part in assisting our Pacific neighbours?Hon Dr MEGAN WOODS: We also have a strong interest in ensuring access for Pacific Island countries. Our aid programme will work with Pacific Island countries regional organisations and other donors to help these countries access vaccines and implement successful immunisation strategies. This is consistent with New Zealand's ongoing commitment to the Pacific and I'd like to thank the Minister of Foreign Affairs for his ongoing advocacy for the Pacific region and its part in the broader vaccine strategy.