Looking for Pacific Leaders

The Department of Internal Affairs is holding an election for a new member to the Pacific Island Consultation and Advisory Group (PICAG).

Members of PICAG are elected from Auckland Central, Manukau, Waitakere, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Porirua, Hutt Valley, Christchurch and Dunedin/Southland. There is currently a vacancy for the Dunedin/Southland area.

PICAG provides strategic advice to the Local Government and Community Branch of the Department of Internal Affairs on how to improve responsiveness to Pacific Island communities and groups in Aotearoa.

Members of PICAG meet regularly with their local Pacific Island communities to discuss issues that relate to the Local Government and Community Branch and seek feedback on current local issues.

Anne Carter, Deputy Secretary of the Local Government and Community Branch, said that the ability to effectively share timely and accurate information is crucial to understanding and meeting the needs of Pacific Island communities.

“This partnership and exchange of information provides a vital tool for the Local Government and Community Branch in reaching its goal of building strong, sustainable communities/hapu/iwi,” said Anne Carter.

Those standing for election have been nominated by a community group in the Dunedin/Southland area that has registered to vote in the PICAG election. Voting will be conducted at a public meeting.

Pacific Island community groups wishing to vote can register in advance or at the public meeting.

The public meeting to elect a new representative for the Dunedin/Southland area will be held at:

Local Government & Community Branch Department of Internal Affairs Level 1, Burns House 10 George Street Dunedin Saturday 28 February 2009 from 12.00pm – 2.00pm

ENDS

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