MP privileged to be the first National Minister of Pacific heritage

Prime Minister John Key today announced the appointment of Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga as a Minister outside of cabinet. Mr Lotu-Iiga will take up the roles of Minister of Pacific Island Affairs and Associate Minister of Local Government.

“I thank the Prime Minister for his confidence in appointing me as the Minister of Pacific Island Affairs and Associate Minister of Local Government. I am deeply humbled and privileged to be the first National Minister of Pacific heritage,” Mr Lotu-Iiga said.

“I look forward to leading the Ministry of Pacific Island Affairs in raising the achievement levels of Pacific people in New Zealand. Our Government is committed to lifting the economic performance and successes of this country and I would like to see Pacific people share in that success. I will also continue to work alongside Pacific communities to realise their dreams and aspiration. I believe the key to unlocking our potential is through education.

“In taking up my role as Minister of Pacific Island Affairs I would like to acknowledge my predecessors, Hon Georgina Te Heuheu and Hon Hekia Parata.

“I am also looking forward to working more closely with Hon Paula Bennett on delivering better outcomes in local government. It is about responding to local views and aspirations on one hand while also delivering on national priorities”.

Mr Lotu-Iiga will be sworn in as a Minister on Tuesday 28 January prior to parliament resuming in the new year.

ENDS

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