MEDIA RELEASE

22 December 2016

Message of congratulations extended to new Minister for Pacific Peoples

Dr Kiki Maoate, Chairman of Pasifika Futures has congratulated Alfred Ngaro on his recent appointment to Cabinet as Minister for Pacific Peoples.

“We extend our sincere congratulations and best wishes on Mr Ngaro’s appointment as the Minister for Pacific Peoples and his promotion to Cabinet.”

“As a Cook Islander, we are proud of Ngaro’s achievement as the first Cook Islander to be appointed as Cabinet minister in the New Zealand government.”

“We work closely with the Ministry in serving Pacific families and advising the government about key issues affecting Pacific families and communities in New Zealand.”

Dr Maoate says Ngaro is an outstanding individual who has worked for many years serving the needs of Pacific communities and has made a significant contribution in social issues. “We are looking forward to working closely with Ngaro in his new ministerial roles focusing on social housing and vulnerable children.”

Pasifika Futures Chief Executive Debbie Sorensen says it is fantastic to see Mr Ngaro recognised and we congratulate him on his new roles and on-going dedication to helping Pacific families and communities.

“We look forward to more collaboration with the Ministry in further strengthening our partnership in servicing struggling families.”

“We also acknowledge the dedication and hard work done by the outgoing Minister for Pacific Peoples, Peseta Sam Lotu Iiga following years of outstanding leadership and his support to the services for our families.”

Mrs Sorensen says Mr Ngaro is a proud Cook Islander and will be able to offer different experience and skill-sets in representing Pacific families’ views, ensuring that all communities have a strong voice in Government.

“We’re sure that Mr Ngaro is looking forward to the challenge ahead. His vast experience which makes him an outstanding candidate for the role, and we are sure he will be great in it.”

“We acknowledge the support from his wife Moka and their children and the sacrifice they make in enabling Mr Ngaro to undertake his role.”

Ngaro is taking on the portfolios of Minister for Pacific Peoples, Community and Voluntary Sector, Associate Minister for Children, and Associate Minister for Social Housing.

ENDS.

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