21 October 2014

Refreshed Green Party portfolios reflect emphasis on big issues

The Green Party has today begun the new Parliamentary term with a refreshed caucus and portfolio list focussed around leading on the two most important issues facing New Zealand and the world – Inequality and Climate Change.

Co-leaders Metiria Turei and Russel Norman will lead two teams focussed on climate change/environment and inequality with the climate change portfolio elevated to being a co-leader responsibility.

“I will retain responsibility for driving our fight against inequality and child poverty, while Russel will take on Climate Change along with Economics,” Co-leader Metiria Turei said.

“This will mean both Green Co-leaders will have responsibility and lead campaigns for change on the two key crises facing our nation and our world – Inequality and Climate Change.”

In her speech in reply today Mrs Turei will say the Green Party would continue to lead on issues in this term of Parliament, aiming to set the agenda and move the Government to act on both child poverty and climate change.

“National has completely failed to grasp the challenge and opportunities presented by climate change.

“In the past six years the Green Party has shown how leading works. Just two years ago, National denied child poverty even existed. Now, it’s apparently top of the Prime Minister’s to-do list.

“Like we’ve done with child poverty and inequality, we will now move National on climate change.

“How we respond to these distinct, yet often intertwined challenges will define us as a nation, and will define the shape of our children’s lives.

“Despite climate change being the most pressing issue facing New Zealand, it barely warranted a mention in the Speech from the Throne.

“This shows just how far the National Party has to go these next three years,” Mrs Turei said.

The refreshed portfolio line-up includes new MP James Shaw utilising his many years of experience with small and medium sized businesses and in sustainable business practice in the Economic Development Portfolio.

Another notable mention is the allocation of the Housing portfolio to Hague. As a senior MP Mr Hague will hold the Government to account for its failures in Housing and promote positive solutions. He will retain responsibility for Health.

Link to a list of portfolio allocations by MP: https://www.greens.org.nz/sites/default/files/MP%20Portfolio%20Allocations%20-%20October%202014.docx

© Scoop Media