Phil Goff
Leader of the Labour Party

28 September 2009 Media Statement

True Labour stalwart will be remembered for his dedication to the Far North

Lifelong Labour Party member Miljenko Srhoj will be remembered for his determined and compassionate advocacy on behalf of the Far North community, says Labour Leader Phil Goff.

“Miljenko (Millie) Srhoj passed away over the weekend. He will be sadly missed in the Far North, but also by the wider Labour Party, of which he was a lifelong and very active member.

“His encouragement and the values to which he held dear throughout his life played an important role in supporting Labour MPs from the Far North as they took up their jobs in Parliament,” Phil Goff said.

“Mr Srhoj was himself a respected Labour Party candidate in two elections, but it was his political activity in the North where he truly made his mark. A local body politician for over 50 years, there was hardly a council or a board he didn’t chair at one point or another.

“Highlights of his career included securing Far North road sealing, retention of the Kaitaia Mill, development of five sewerage schemes and retention of the Kaitaia Airport. He also mounted a strong battle to save the Kaitaia Hospital.

“On behalf of the Labour Party, I’d like to pay my respects to his family and thank them for his many, many years of service. He was a role model to many.”

ENDS

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