Hon Tariana Turia
Minister for the Community and Voluntary Sector
Associate Minister for Social Development and Employment
Associate Minister for Disability Issues

10 November 2009
Media Statement

Hundreds to gather at community forum

The Minister for the Community and Voluntary Sector, Tariana Turia is hosting a high level Community-Government forum tomorrow which brings together the Prime Minister, nine cabinet ministers and nearly 200 key players in New Zealand’s community sector.

“The forum will focus on how we can develop a Relationship Agreement fit for the future with the aim of strengthening connections between the community and government,” Minister Turia said.

The forum will involve wide-ranging representation including sports, arts, social services, health, religion, education, environment, youth, older people, disabled people, Māori, Pacific peoples and ethnic minorities.

“Communities want to take ownership of the many important issues that affect their lives. This may be ensuring healthy warm homes, participating in ecological restoration, coaching our children’s sport, or organising around particular health needs.

“Ultimately we are working toward doing the best for the people of New Zealand recognising that we need to join forces and work together.”

The forum will also provide an opportunity for the community sector to discuss the Government’s response to the Good Intentions – An Assessment of the Statement of Government Intentions for an Improved Community-Government and the From Talk to Action: Government Engagement with Citizens and Communities reports.

“This forum is an important step toward a Relationship Agreement and we will need to involve wider community organisations as the finer details develop.”

ENDS

© Scoop Media