18 December 2012

Southern Initiative on the agenda

Auckland Council’s Social and Community Development Forum will today hear from the general manager of the Southern Initiative, a 30-year programme to strengthen children and families in stable homes and employment in the south of Auckland.

John McEnteer, who began the role of general manager role in October, will provide councillors an overview of the project, one of two big initiatives in the Auckland Plan.

“The initiative is an opportunity to improve the quality of life of local residents, grow business, create jobs for local people and dramatically reduce regional disparities, and that will benefit all of Auckland and New Zealand,” says Mr McEnteer.

The Southern Initiative programme will be developed and delivered in partnership with central government, the business sector and community groups who will unite around shared issues and goals to actively support and strengthen activities in the south.
“We’re just starting to bring people together and are in the process of learning who and how organisations and groups want to be involved,” he says.

Last week, Councillor Alf Filipaina was elected as chairperson of the project’s steering group. Karen Wilson, a member of Te Akitai Waiohua Iwi Authority, was elected deputy chairperson.

“The involvement of John McEnteer and my colleague Councillor Alf Filipaina fills me with great optimism for this project and our ability to work together to deliver more positive outcomes for the families and communities of the south,” says Councillor Cathy Casey, chairperson of the forum.

The Social and Community Development Forum meeting is Tuesday, 18 December from 1.30pm at The Gallery, Level 1 Manukau Civic Building, Wiri Station Road.

ENDS

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