Award recognises Parliament’s efforts for children

Hon Margaret Wilson, Speaker of the House of Representatives, with Deputy Speaker Hon Clem Simich, yesterday accepted an award on behalf of Parliament for its contribution to improving the status and well-being of New Zealand children.

The award by Every Child Counts, a coalition of 350 community groups and 6000 individual members dedicated to improving the status of children, was for Parliament’s work to enact the Crimes (Substituted Section 59) Amendment Act earlier this year.

Ms Wilson said it was an honour to accept the award on behalf of Parliament.

‘It is not often that Parliament receives an award,’ she said. ‘But then it is not often that politicians put aside deeply held opposing views to support something which most of us treasure.

‘The fact that they were able to do so to help enable children to live in a safe and secure environment, free from violence, tells us a lot about the common decency of most Members of Parliament.

‘The Crimes (substituted Section 59) Amendment Bill was all about putting children first. The law change is an important step in the effort to change the culture of violence against children and encourage positive parenting and greater respect for children.

‘It is up to all of us to make sure that the combined effect of the coalition’s advocacy and Parliament’s decision-making is not wasted,’ she said.

The award will initially be displayed at the reception desk on the first floor of Parliament House.

ENDS

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