30 January 2012

Collins Comments
Happy New Year

It’s great to be back after the summer break. I enjoyed spending some quality time with my family and caught up on all the little things I don’t get a lot of time to do during the year– taking long walks, having coffee with friends, watching the History and Living channels, cleaning the house, playing golf and shopping in the sales.

The New Year gives us great opportunity to reflect, take stock of what’s important and set goals for the year ahead. This year I’ve started boxing training and have already enjoyed several circuit sessions. Boxing is an excellent workout and a great way to stay fit, de-stress and focus on the job ahead.

2013 is shaping up to be another busy year across the Justice, ACC and Ethnic Affairs portfolios.

We’re working hard to pass the Bail Amendment Bill this year which will make it harder for those accused of serious offences to get bail. We’re also prioritising Public Protection Orders to better protect New Zealanders from serious sexual or violent offenders.

The new ACC board is in place and committed to rebuilding public trust and confidence in the corporation. I’m also looking forward to hosting Chinese New Year celebrations at Parliament to welcome in the Year of the Water Snake and mark the beginning of an exciting calendar of ethnic events.

The Prime Minister has outlined this Government's plan to encourage investment, strengthen the economy, and boost jobs. Following the construction boom in Christchurch, around 14,000 additional apprentices will start training during the next five years. We’re putting an extra $12 million behind our apprentices to give thousands of New Zealanders the opportunity to learn a new trade that will last them a lifetime.

I’d like to congratulate Strathallan College photography students Saebom (Jenny) Kang, Liam Julian, Sunia Sun Shui, Chelsea Turner and Benjamin Van Het Bolscher who achieved 100 per cent in their AS Cambridge International Examination. This in an outstanding achievement and reflects your commitment to excellence. Well done.

To you all,

Best wishes for a prosperous 2013.

Hon Judith Collins
MP for Papakura

ENDS

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