Pacific Island Affairs & NZ Police to work closely under new Memorandum of Understanding

The Ministry of Pacific Island Affairs Chief Executive, Pauline Winter, and The Commissioner of Police, Mike Bush, are this afternoon signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ministry and the New Zealand Police.

Pauline Winter says the MoU sets the framework for a long and successful relationship.

“It comes at a time when the Ministry is working hard to make a positive impact on the lives of Pacific peoples.”

“As a small agency, the Ministry wants to work collaboratively with larger Government agencies to achieve its vision of more Successful Pacific Peoples.”

Ms Winter says the MoU will enhance the work the Ministry is already doing in Pacific communities to boost education, skills and employment for young Pacific people.

“I look forward to seeing the outcomes of this collaboration, as we work together to make the vision of successful Pacific peoples an increasing reality,” she says.

NZ Police Commissioner, Mike Bush, says the MoU strengthens the Police relationship with the Ministry and paves the way for even closer cooperation.

“It will enhance our ability to understand and value the Pacific perspective by tapping into the specialist knowledge and expertise of the Ministry to help keep Pacific communities safe and enhance the trust and confidence in their Police,” he says.

“The MoU will also aid in developing the leadership aspirations of Pacific people in the Police and the Ministry through new secondments, as well as promoting NZ Police as a career option for Pacific peoples,” Mr Bush says.

There are currently about 490 Pacific Islanders in the New Zealand Police, making up about 5 percent of total staff.

It’s hoped by working together to encourage even greater community engagement with the Police the agencies can encourage more Pacific people to apply for the force.

As part of the MoE agreement a protocol group with two nominees from each agency will be formed. The representatives will meet to discuss key tasks where improvements in service delivery can be identified and incorporated into area action plans, with appropriate performance measures.

Priority areas outlined in the agreement include reducing violence; including family violence, reducing the harm from alcohol, promoting road safety and working towards better outcomes for Pacific young people.

ENDS

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