Angie Warren-Clark Labour MP

The launch of Whaikaha – the Ministry of Disabled People was an historic and important moment. The Ministry has been stood up in eight months, with collaboration from leaders of the disabled community, Ministers and staff across the Ministry of Social Development, Ministry of Health and the Office for Disability Issues.

I attended the launch and heard from a number of speakers, all echoing that this has been decades in the making for some and a new beginning for 1.1 million people in New Zealand.

As Minister for Social Development Carmel Sepuloni and newly-appointed Minister of Disability Issues Poto Williams announced, this new chapter is a 'significant step towards realising true partnership between Government and disabled people, tāngata whaikaha, their whānau, carers and supporters”.

A new united nationwide public health system dissolves the ‘postcode lottery', ensuring every New Zealander can access quality public healthcare. A landmark review found 20 disconnected health systems that weren't putting patients at the heart of healthcare. First came funding, hospital repairs and a new mental health system. Now the government is working with local communities to improve their services and address small issues before they become big problems.

The Prime Minister signed off on the EU free trade agreement, following four years of hard mahi negotiating with 27 competing economies. We have tariff removal for kiwifruit, honey, wine, onions, large parts of our seafood sector, other horticultural and manufacturing products, plus access for our dairy and beef sectors to the value of $600 million. Brilliant!