Hon Judith Collins

National Party Ethnic AffairsSpokeswoman

29 August 2014 Media Statement

Ethnic communities thriving under National

Ethnic communities are thriving under National’s leadership and Ethnic Affairs Spokeswoman, Judith Collins, says the Party’s election policy will build on National’s fantastic track-record.

“Under the National-led Government, the Office of Ethnic Affairs (OEA) has transformed into a well-respected and influential voice for ethnic communities,” says Ms Collins.

“Our policies focus on ensuring every New Zealander can participate in the community, employment and decision-making, and can make a positive contribution to our national success.

“We’re supporting greater ethnic representation on government boards, committees and advisory groups, with an improved ethnic nominations service and ethnic leadership programmes now up and running in our main city centres.”

Ms Collins says National is promoting the long-term benefits of diversity for SME growth with networking and knowledge-sharing opportunities between new migrant and established Kiwi businesses.

“More organisations realise the benefits of ethnic diversity and this has also sparked increased demand from a range of organisations for OEA’s workplace diversity programmes,” Ms Collins says.

“As well as supporting English language initiatives, we have extended the availability of Language Line interpreting services to the private sector. An increasing number of companies providing essential services like Meridian and Quitline now have interpreters on standby.

“National supports practical initiatives that make a real difference in the lives of ethnic New Zealanders. We are delivering on our priorities, providing communities with the tools they need to get ahead and supporting an environment where ethnic diversity is valued and celebrated.

“While Labour is promising more bureaucracy and expensive window dressing, National is hard at work delivering practical initiatives with real outcomes.”

National’s Ethnic Affairs policy is available at: http://ntnl.org.nz/YXWN7R

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