Human Rights Commission

Media release

4 June 2013

Powhiri for new Commissioner

Dr Jackie Blue, the newly appointed Equal Employment Opportunities Commissioner, began her first day at the Human Rights Commission with a formal powhiri hosted by Ngati Whatua kaumatua including Grant Hawke at Orakei marae in Auckland today.

Dr Blue said,” I feel privileged and honoured to be here at Orakei marae, a place with so many stories and a history that has its own human rights whakapapa.”

She outlined some of the steps on her own journey. “I feel that we all share a responsibility, if not a passion, to make this country a better place. It’s one reason why I served in Parliament.”

She found great satisfaction working on cross-party committees: The New Zealand Parliamentarian’s Group on Population and Development, the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians and Parliamentarians for Global Action. “These have a human rights focus and it was wonderful working with Parliamentarians from all sides of the House.”

She said,” I have to say that Parliament has a way to go before it becomes more fully representative of society. Only 33 per cent of representatives are women, but I am sure there will come a day when Parliament is a better reflection of our communities.”

As a former doctor, she had used her experience to assist with the advocacy to look at ways to facilitate the recognition of overseas medical qualifications. Dr Blue noted that a trial scheme to assist overseas trained doctors to qualify in New Zealand had been a success, changing the lives for the better for those new doctors and their future patients.

As a country, she felt New Zealand was small and fair-minded. She looked forward to the work ahead in ensuring equal employment opportunities, especially for women. “As women make progress, so does everyone, including men and boys. Tapping into the potential of women and girls is not only the right thing to do it is the smart thing to do.”

Chief Human Rights Commissioner David Rutherford was ill and unable to attend, but in a speech delivered on his behalf, he welcomed Dr Blue to the Human Rights Commission.

“In the coming year, the Commission is placing its focus on the four outcome areas of reducing inequalities in work and education; the importance of health, housing and community; reducing violence and inequality; and human rights mainstreaming.

“The Commission is at a crucial point where we are aiming high to increase our relevance to and impact on all people in New Zealand. We are thrilled that you are joining us at this significant time Jackie, and we thoroughly look forward to working with you.”

ENDS