11 September 2015

Green Party congratulates Russel Norman on Greenpeace appointment

The Green Party is offering former Co-leader Dr Russel Norman a very warm thank you and congratulations following his announcement this morning that he will be taking up the position of Greenpeace New Zealand Executive Director.

Dr Norman will take up his new position with Greenpeace at the beginning of November and will conclude as a Green Party MP at the end of October.

Dr Norman's departure means Marama Davidson from Manurewa, Auckland will become the Green Party’s 14th MP.

“There are few words that could express how grateful we are to Russel for his incredible contribution to the Green Party,” said Green Party Co-leader Metiria Turei.

“Since becoming Co-leader outside Parliament in 2006 after the tragic death of Rod Donald, Russel has established himself as one of the most effective MPs in the opposition.

“He was a constant thorn in the Government’s side, and a passionate voice for the environment, the disadvantaged, and those who want a smarter greener economy.

“Russel played a huge role in transforming the Greens into the third largest and most successful party in parliament,” said Mrs Turei.

“Russel's leadership and intellect is regarded across Parliament, but his impact was also felt behind the scenes,” said Green Party Co-leader James Shaw.

“He transformed our internal structure at the Greens, helping to create a formidable political machine. Russel essentially wrote the blueprint for how we transition to a smart green economy in New Zealand. Every day I'm aware of the ground that he has laid.

“Russel will be enormously missed, and we wish him all the best for his new job at Greenpeace,” said Mr Shaw.

Marama Davidson, of Ngāpuhi, Te Rawara and Ngāti Porou, will enter parliament in November as the Green Party’s 14th MP.

Ms Davidson is a well-known political commentator who comes to Parliament after a ten year career at the Human Rights Commission. She recently worked part-time as the Chief Panelist for the Glenn Inquiry into Domestic Violence and Child Abuse. She has six children and lives in Manurewa, Auckland.

“With every close there is a new opening, and we are incredibly excited about Marama Davidson becoming an MP,” said Mrs Turei.

“Marama’s expertise in and commitment to social justice will be a huge asset to the Green Parliamentary team.

“Marama is a modern, progressive voice for Māori political aspiration and will also be a very welcome fourth member of the party’s Māori caucus.

“We are excited about the contributions that Marama will bring to the Green Party and to Parliament.”

--

Marama Davidson, 41

Ngāti Porou, Te Rarawa, Ngāpuhi

Marama Davidson lives in Manurewa, Auckland and has six children. She comes to Parliament after a ten year career at the Human Rights Commission.

Recently Marama worked part-time as the Chief Panelist for the Glenn Inquiry into Domestic Violence and Child Abuse.

Her involvement in the inquiry has placed violence at the forefront of her political radar.

Marama stood for the Green Party in the 2013 Ikaroa Rāwhiti by-election and then in Tāmaki Makaurau for the 2014 General Election.

She also has a powerful presence on social media where she blogs and writes about social justice, Māori politics and women’s rights.

Educational and vocational qualifications: BA and Graduate Diploma in International Diplomacy for Indigenous Studies.

Previous occupations: Green Party senior member support (social issues); Online Community Manager, Breastfeeding New Zealand (part-time contract with GSL Network, 2010-13); Advisor, Human Rights and Race Relations for the Human Rights Commission (2003-12); Youth Tutor, Te Rapunga O Poutama Work and Educational Trust (2001-03).

© Scoop Media