|
||||||||||||||||||||||
GOVERNMENT NEWS ARCHIVE 2005 |
||||||||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||||||
January |
||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Foreign Minister Phil Goff today officially confirmed the appointment of Speaker of the House Jonathan Hunt as New Zealand's next High Commissioner to the United Kingdom and Ambassador to Ireland. "This follows completion of the formal diplomatic appointment process with the British and Irish governments," Mr Goff said. "Jonathan Hunt has been a Member of Parliament for 38 years. As a Minister between 1984 and 1990 in the fourth Labour government he held the portfolios of Telecommunications and Broadcasting, Postmaster-General, Tourism and Housing. He was Leader of the House from 1987-90; elected Speaker in December 1999, and re-elected following the 2002 election. Jonathan Hunt
takes up his posting in March. He replaces Russell Marshall,
who has completed a three-year term in London. Dame Silvia is due to complete her five year term as Governor-General on 4 April 2006. Her term has now been extended until 4 August 2006. "The appointment of the Governor-General is a significant matter, important to all New Zealanders, and it is appropriate that the selection and appointment process do not coincide with the pre-election period. "I am grateful to Dame Silvia for agreeing to continue to serve in office for the additional four months," Helen Clark said.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
15
February The Food and Beverage Sector Taskforce has held its inaugural meeting.The taskforce is a Government and industry-led initiative to capitalise on one of the country's fastest-growing sectors and is the first to be appointed under the Government’s new approach to sector engagement. The taskforce hopes to ensure that Government activities that impact on the sector are coordinated and aligned, and that policies support the sector's growth. It is a largely private sector, 20 member taskforce co-chaired by Economic Development Minister Jim Anderton and managing director of Griffin’s Foods Tony Nowell. Members are: Tony
Nowell (Co-chair), Managing Director of Griffin’s
Foods Ltd. 1 February
2005 Katherine Rich has lost her job as National Party Welfare spokesperson and been demoted from the front bench for failing to publicly support Leader Don Brash's welfare policies. National Party Leader Don Brash today announced several changes to his shadow Cabinet line-up in what he described as a fine-tuning for the parliamentary year. Key elements are:
"At the time of my
last reshuffle, Katherine Rich expressed an interest in an economic
role, to broaden her experience. I am now meeting that request."
said Mr Brash.
| ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
8 March 3 March The new Speaker was elected using roll-call-style voting with every MP standing and individually declaring their preference. Assistant Speaker and long-time National MP Clem Simich and ACT MP Ken Shirley contested the position but Ms Wilson won comfortably with 64 votes, compared to Mr Simich’s 37 and Mr Shirley’s five. Ms Wilson takes over the Speaker's role from Jonathan Hunt who will soon leave behind a 38-year parliamentary career to become the next High Commissioner to London. In the meantime Mr Hunt returned to the backbenches, from where he heard party leaders pay tribute to his time as Speaker. The Governor-General was to confirm Ms Wilson’s election at Government House this afternoon and Parliament has adjourned till Tuesday.
| ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
5 April TAMIHERE ON STRESS LEAVE
| ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
29 May 23 May Tim Groser, currently New Zealand's World Trade Organisation Ambassador and Chair of the Agriculture Negotiations, will stand as a National Party list Candidate at the forthcoming General Election. He will resign as ambassador and the Government has said
he should also stand down from his WTO role. PAUL FITZHARRIS IS APPOINTED TO THE BOARD OF LAND TRANSPORT NEW ZEALAND Minister of Transport Pete Hodgson has announced the appointment of Paul Fitzharris to the Board of Land Transport New Zealand. "Mr Fitzharris has represented Police on the National
Road Safety Committee and, before retirement, was an Acting Deputy Commissioner
with New Zealand Police. His expertise in land transport safety issues
will be an asset to the Board," says Pete Hodgson. 17 May Prime Minister Helen Clark has announced that Hon David Benson-Pope has at his own request stood aside from his portfolios while an independent investigation is conducted into the credibility of the allegations against him. It is alleged that he physically bullied pupils when he was a high school teacher in Dunedin in the1980s. Helen Clark said she would be seeking advice from Solicitor-General Terence Arnold on the form of the inquiry. “Mr Benson-Pope strongly refutes the allegations which have been levelled at him but has asked to stand aside while they are independently investigated,” Helen Clark said. Hon Trevor Mallard will be acting minister for those parts of the education portfolio for which Mr Benson-Pope has responsibility and Hon Pete Hodgson will be acting Minister of Fisheries. 16 May The Qualifications Authority's Chief Executive, Karen Van Rooyen, has resigned. There have been calls for Ms Van Rooyen to quit since the release 10 days ago of a State Services Commission report into problems with last year's Scholarship exams. This report was highly critical of the authority's role, and the board chairman Graeme Fraser resigned immediately. Ms Van Rooyen said her decision would benefit both the authority and herself personally. Ms Van Rooyen said she hoped it would act as a catalyst for resolving issues around the way Scholarship was conducted. 6 May The Chair of the Board of the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA), Professor Graeme Fraser, has resigned following the release of a State Services Commission report that is highly critical of NZQA’s handling of last year’s scholarship exams. The text of Professor Fraser's letter to Associate Education Minister, Hon David Benson-Pope, was as follows. "The New Zealand Qualifications Authority has a significant task ahead of it as it seeks to resolve recent difficulties with the 2004 New Zealand Scholarship examinations. "The Qualifications Authority is the subject of several reviews, two of which will made public tomorrow. "While these reports indicate a number of causes for the recent difficulties, the top priority is to ensure the delivery of both scholarship and the NCEA occurs in a way that gives students, parents, teachers and the Government confidence, along with meeting the Qualifications Authority's other responsibilities. "I believe the way forward would be assisted by the appointment of a Chair of the Qualifications Authority who can devote his or her time and energy to the challenges before it. Accordingly, I write to inform you that I resign as Chair of the New Zealand Qualifications Authority, effective 12 Noon, Friday, 6 May 2005. A public announcement of my resignation will be made at that time.
| ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
30 June 20 June Dr White qualified as a medical practitioner in Western Australia and practised at the Royal Perth Hospital before embarking on a career in health administration. She held positions in the health sector in Western Australia and Victoria before her current position in Hamilton. The Board is confident Dr White will build on the platform set in place by Garry Wilson who will retire in October. 14 June Engineering, Printing and Manufacturing Union national secretary Andrew Little said that Mr Norris had led the airline through some significant stages, including the recovery from virtual collapse in 2001, the proposed merger with Qantas, and the repositioning on the domestic market as a mixed-value service. Finance Minister Michael Cullen said that for Air New Zealand and the interests of the country, he was sorry that Ralph was going and that Mr Norris' contribution to the rescue and revival of the company had been enormous. “He leaves behind an airline which is financially one of the soundest in the world and in the early stages of an exciting upgrading programme," Dr Cullen said. Mr Norris is to take up a position as chief executive of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia. 13 June A new research advisory group will provide expert advise to the government on major investments in research infrastructure, Research, Science and Technology Minister, Steve Maharey announced today. "The Research Infrastructure Advisory Group will give the government access to expert advice to ensure new investments in research infrastructure are in New Zealand's best interests," Steve Maharey said. "The announcement is part of moves to take a more strategic and forward-looking approach to investments in research and science over the long-term." The group will be chaired by Associate Professor Jim Metson of the University of Auckland's Department of Chemistry. The remaining five members of the group are expected to be announced at the end of June and will be selected for their standing in the science community. 13 June 7 June Prime Minister Helen Clark says that Hon David Benson-Pope is today resuming his responsibilities as Minister of Fisheries and Associate Minister for the Environment, with responsibility for the Resource Management Act Amendment Bill. "The Speaker has found that there is no issue of privilege with respect to Mr Benson-Pope. "Mr Benson-Pope will not return to his duties as Associate Minister of Education while the police inquiry is ongoing," Helen Clark said.
| ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
25 July “What you’re looking at is a leadership team in this government which has 48 years of combined parliamentary experience against counterparts who have precisely six,” she told a news conference. Labour will launch its campaign in Auckland on August 21, and Parliament will sit this week and next - some of that under urgency - before being dissolved formally on August 11. Also on that day Treasury will produce its pre-election economic and fiscal update, which is required by law before an election. Though Labour has been trailing National in the polls for two months, Miss Clark said she was optimistic. “I am absolutely confident that New Zealanders do not want a radical change in direction in their government." ACT leader Rodney Hide's opinion was in direct contrast stating that: "The country wants a change - the only way to guarantee that change is to give their Party Vote to ACT." National leader Dr Brash said the National Party intends
to focus on the important issues affecting ordinary New Zealanders in
this election campaign. Peter Dunne, leader of United Future, said his party’s planning for a September 17 election was well-advanced “since that was the date we have always assumed it would be held”. “Now that the uncertainty is out of the way, the New Zealand voter can focus on what will be the best form of government to promote New Zealand’s and the New Zealand family’s prosperity. New Zealand First leader Mr Peters appeared relieved to
hear the announcement and reminded voters of his Party's campaign launch
date on Sunday 31st July. Moves to further improve the provision of official statistics has taken a step forward with the announcement of the establishment of the Advisory Committee on Official Statistics (ACOS). ACOS will be an independent body with a remit to provide the Minister of Statistics with advice on key official statistics produced by government. It is to be chaired by former Minister of Finance, and recent Chair of the Accident Compensation Commission, Hon David Caygill. "The value of official statistics to New Zealand originates in the quality of what information is collected, how it is processed and then made available," says Minister of Statistics Pete Hodgson. "As our society and economy continues to change, it's important the collection and provision of statistics keep pace with that change. ACOS has been established to help ensure that happens. "The range and quality of appointments to the committee gives me confidence that it will do a good job. ACOS's establishment is a significant development in the continued increase in value of official statistics to New Zealand." In addition to the Chair, the nine committee members are: Professor Dick Bedford (Deputy Vice Chancellor, Research,
Waikato University) The Government Statistician, Brian Pink also joins the
ACOS committee as an 18 July In releasing United Future’s list of candidates for the 2005 election, Party Vice-President, Denise Krum, said today “This has been a tremendous first term from our caucus of 8 MP's. “We believe we have the right people to increase
that number and make an even greater impact for good in the future.
I thank our many quality candidates for their time, energy and commitment.
The New Zealand parliament needs, more than ever, a strong, balanced,
centrist party like United Future. We're looking forward to a dynamic
campaign and present our list to the public with confidence.” July 7 Department of Internal Affairs spokesman Colin Feslier said Dr Ferguson was still employed by the department but had not transferred with the service when it switched to the Department of Building and Housing on July 1. Former service adjudicator David Gatley, who resigned last year in protest at the way the service was failing to help homeowners, said Dr Ferguson was "completely out of her depth and knowledge" as head of the service. He believed other senior staff connected with the service should also resign. Mr Bickle is also national manager of tenancy services for the Department of Building and Housing. | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
23 August 23 August New Zealand First has released its candidates list for
the 2005 General Election. 15 August The party has been polling less than the 5 per cent threshold in party vote support, its survival in Parliament dependent on party leader Peter Dunne retaining his Ohariu-Belmont electorate seat. His daughter Sharee Adams, who was 17 on the party's list, is also understood to have quit. 5 August New Zealand's next Consul-General to Shanghai will be career diplomat Wen Chin Powles, Foreign Minister Phil Goff said today. "Shanghai is one of China's main commercial centres. It has a population of nearly 20 million, and sits at the head of the Yangtze River valley, the source of 40 percent of China's agricultural and industrial output. "The primary role of New Zealand's Consul-General in Shanghai is to foster a wide range of links in the commercial, political, consular, cultural and education sectors," Mr Goff said. Wen Powles joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade in 1988. Her previous postings have included Beijing and New York. She will take up her appointment in December, replacing Pam Dunn.
| ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
19 September Prime Minister Helen Clark today set out a timetable of events for the transition period following Saturday’s general election.
Helen Clark said that while consultations took place about the shape of the government, the current government continues in caretaker mode. The key principles of the caretaker convention are that:
Helen Clark said that the appointment of a government takes place after the Governor-General is satisfied that a group of parties can command the confidence of the House. By law, Parliament is required to resume no later than Friday 18 November. “The task now is for arrangements to be made which will ensure
stable government in New Zealand for the next three years,” Helen
Clark said. 18 September The Directory is currently being updated to include new electorate MP's and provisional list MP's. At present, some new MP's biography information is limited and may not include a photo. As more information becomes available it will be added to the site. For in-depth election results visit www.electionresults.govt.nz.
| ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
31 October After a day of speculation, late on Sunday afternoon final confirmation
was made that Ian Fraser, the chief executive of state broadcaster Television
New Zealand, has resigned. Fraser has been TVNZ's chief executive since 2002 and he has offered to stay on at the helm while the broadcaster transitions to a new chief executive. 28 October “This provides a helpful basis for strengthening our bilateral relationship with Israel. “Israel closed its Embassy in Wellington in October 2002. Israel’s bilateral contacts with New Zealand have since been conducted from its Embassy in Canberra. “There has been a period recently of strained relations but that period is now behind us. The New Zealand Government welcomes Israel’s decision to re-open its Wellington Mission. The Embassy will provide an additional means for dialogue and cooperation between our countries,” Mr Peters said. 26 October "The new lineup signals the emphasis I am placing on sharp, experienced attack politicians and top performers. National is in an excellent position to expose the many weaknesses of a weak, cobbled-together Clark/Peters Government," says Dr Brash. Deputy Leader Gerry Brownlee retains oversight of Maori Affairs and Treaty issues, remains Shadow Leader of the House, and adds State Services to his list of responsibilities. The promotion of National's Finance spokesman, John Key, is one of the features of the new lineup. Mr Key is elevated to No 4 ranking, from No 7. He is one position behind former leader Bill English, who has been elevated one place to No 3. Dr Brash says Mr Key has been rewarded for a sound election campaign that saw him outclass Finance Minister Michael Cullen in selling National's message and exposing the Labour Government's faults. "Bill English's elevation to No 3 underlines the critical role he will continue to play as part of the wider leadership team. He exposed Labour's complete mismanagement of the Education portfolio during the last Parliament. He will also continue to have a role in the Finance portfolio," Dr Brash announced. Fifth-ranked Nick Smith takes up a new role in overseeing Energy, Tony Ryall has been awarded Health and Wayne Mapp has been awarded the task of eradicating political correctness. 19 October Former Social Development Minister Steve Maharey gets the education portfolio, with David Benson-Pope taking over the social development and employment job from him. Former Education Minister Trevor Mallard becomes Minister of both Economic Development and Industry and Regional Development and State-Owned Enterprises, with an associate role in finance. Progressive leader Jim Anderton retains his place at number 3 in the Cabinet and takes over agriculture, biosecurity, fisheries and forestry, as well as becoming Associate Minister for Tertiary Education. Fomer Foreign Affairs Minister Phil Goff - whose Foreign Affairs role has gone to NZ First leader Winston Peters - takes over defence and trade and retains Pacific Island Affairs. He also becomes an Associate Finance Minister. The key energy and transport portfolios go to 18th-ranked newcomer David Parker, who also becomes Attorney-General and the Minister Responsible for Climate Change Issues. Michael Cullen remains Finance Minister and adds the tertiary education portfolio.The new Minister for Building Issues and Minister of Statistics is Clayton Cosgrove, who also picked up roles as associate minister for finance, immigration and justice portfolio's. Lianne Dalziel is returned to her old commerce job after two years on the backbenches. Taito Phillip Field appears to have been dropped from his post as Minister outside Cabinet and Winnie Laban has picked up his associate roles in Pacific Island Affairs and Social Development and Employment. 19 October Ms Pettis made the anouncement as Prime Minister Helen Clark is poised to reshuffle her Cabinet. Ms Pettis lost the Whanganui seat to National's Chester Borrows but was returned on Labour's list. 18 October Helen Clark and Michael Cullen, as leader and deputy leader, are elected automatically, and Jim Anderton holds a Cabinet position by virtue of the coalition agreement with the Progressive Party. A ballot was held for the remaining 17 places. Eleven serving ministers were re-elected and six new ministers were elected. Serving ministers re-elected: Hon Rick Barker New ministers elected: Clayton Cosgrove Helen Clark said the Hon Jim Sutton did not contest the ballot. "I will be appointing him as Minister of Trade Negotiations, with Cabinet ranking, till the end of the year so that he is available for the important Hong Kong ministerial meeting of the WTO," Helen Clark said. Helen Clark said that she and Dr Cullen would be working on Tuesday to determine portfolio allocations and appointments of members of the executive outside Cabinet. The objective is to have ministers sworn in on Wednesday afternoon. 17 October Labour leader and Prime Minister-elect Helen Clark has announced the formation of a coalition government with the Progressive Party plus confidence and supply deals with centre parties New Zealand First and United Future. New Zealand First Leader Winston Peters and United Future Leader Peter Dunne have been given ministerial positions outside the Cabinet in exchange for their parties' support, Mr Peters becomes Minister of Foreign Affairs, Racing and Associate Minister of Senior Citizens Mr Dunne becomes Minister of Revenue and Associate Health Minister. Miss Clark said collective responsibility would apply to the areas that the two leaders have portfolio responsibility. The Green Party has signed a cooperation agreement in which it undertakes to not oppose confidence and supply in exchange for some policy gains. 16 October New Zealand First MP Doug Woolerton has confirmed he has quit as party president. It is alleged Mr Woolerton objects to the possibility of Mr Peters gaining a ministerial position as the party stated it would not accept any posts as part of a deal with Labour. Mr Peters was at Parliament yesterday finalising negotiations with Labour and attending a New Zealand First board meeting at which Mr Woolerton gave notice of his intention to resign. Mr Woolerton said he would "absolutely" remain as an MP.
| ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
16 October The caretaker Minister of Police, George Hawkins has paid tribute to Police Commissioner Rob Robinson, who has announced that he would be stepping down from his role at the end of the year. "Mr Robinson is a good commissioner who has dealt with issues head-on," said Mr Hawkins. "Under him, Police have helped achieve the lowest crime rate in 25 years, the highest clearance rate in 18 years and kept our roads safer than they have been in decades. "Today's announcement is a sad day for Police but I thank Mr Robinson
for his considerable contribution and wish him good luck in the future." 12 October The Green Party Caucus has reallocated its policy portfolios amongst its six MPs for the coming parliamentary term. There has been some reshuffling, as well as the reallocation of responsibilities previously covered by departed MPs. "While all MPs have an increased workload, second-term MP Metiria Turei has picked up significant new responsibilities, including Justice, Conservation and Biosecurity," Co-Leader Rod Donald says. The new Green MPs' policy portfolios have been allocated as follows: Jeanette Fitzsimons - Climate Change, Energy, Environment, Fisheries, Forestry, Genetic Engineering, Oceans Research, Science & Technology (incl. Crown Research Institutes), Sustainable Economics, Transport, Treaty Issues (Assoc.). Rod Donald - Buy Kiwi Made, Commerce, Electoral Reform, Finance & Revenue, Land Information, Regional Development & Small Business, Superannuation, Sustainable Economics, State Services, Statistics, Tourism, Trade, Waste. Sue Bradford - ACC, Agriculture, Arts and Culture (Assoc.), Children's Affairs, Community & Volunteer Sector, Community, Economic Development & Small Business, Disability Issues, Employment, Gambling, Housing, Industrial Relations, Internal Affairs, Mental Health, National Library & Archives, Racing, Rural Affairs, Social Services. Sue Kedgley - Animal Welfare, Arts & Culture, Broadcasting, Consumer Affairs, Environment (Assoc.), Health, Local Government, Organics, Safe Food, Transport (Assoc. Wellington), Women's Affairs. Keith Locke - Civil Defence, Customs, Defence, Disarmament, Ethnic Affairs, Foreign Affairs, Human Rights, Immigration, Industrial Relations (Assoc.), Overseas Development Assistance, Pacific Island Affairs, Police Security & Intelligence, Sports, Fitness and Leisure, Transport (Assoc. Auckland), Veteran Affairs. Metiria Turei - Biosecurity, Conservation, Education (incl. Tertiary), Environmental Education, Health (Assoc. Alcohol & Drugs), Information Technology & Communications, Justice, Mäori Affairs, Treaty Issues, Youth Affairs. 11 October Mr Tisch had been the junior whip and said after the caucus that he understood the job and was looking forward to the new challenge. Leader Don Brash said he would wait to see if Labour could form a government before he announced a shadow Cabinet. 10 October National Party Leader Don Brash says today he has received, with regret, the resignation of his Chief of Staff, Richard Long. Dr Brash says Mr Long brought dual skills of staff management and media knowledge to the role. He has agreed to see through the transition to a new appointment. ”I want to place on record my appreciation of the tremendous contribution Richard has made to the resurgence of the National Party as a major political force in this country – we have more than doubled our party vote and nearly doubled our parliamentary representation,” says Dr Brash. 7 October Child, Youth and Family (CYF) Chief Executive Paula Tyler has resigned, citing family reasons. Ms Tyler's partner has returned to Canada to become Chief of Staff in the Alberta State Premier's office. Ms Tyler will finish in December this year. She became Chief Executive in August 2004. 3 October Prime Minister Helen Clark today paid tribute to three ministerial colleagues who have announced that they will not be seeking re-election to the Cabinet. Helen Clark said that Hon George Hawkins, Hon Paul Swain, and Hon Marian Hobbs had all contributed a great deal during their two terms as ministers in the Labour-led government. George Hawkins held the portfolios of Police, Internal Affairs, Civil Defence, Veterans' Affairs and Ethnic Affairs. Paul Swain has held a raft of portfolios since 1999, most recently Labour, Immigration, Corrections and State-Owned Enterprises. Marian Hobbs was responsible for Environment, Disarmament, Broadcasting and Biosecurity portfolios, and was Associate Education Minister. "All three will continue to contribute to the government through their work as electorate MPs, and in the Labour caucus, and I look forward to my team having the benefit of their skills and experience," Helen Clark said. 1 October The official results of the 2005 general election held on 17 September 2005 have been determined after completion of counting of special votes. Two changes have emerged from the new totals which change the results of election night. The first is the size of Parliament, which will be 121 seats (an increase of one seat over the normal 120 seats), down from 122 predicted on election night. The additional seat is because the Maori Party won more electorate seats (4 seats) than its entitlement under the party vote (3 seats). The second change is that the National Party has lost one List MP seat, that of Katrina Shanks, due special votes changing the over-all proportion of party votes. There are no changes to the number of seats held by other parties on election night. All electorate candidates leading on election night have been confirmed as winning their electorate seats. Voter turnout was 80.92% (2002 - 76.98%). Labour will lead multi-party talks beginning Monday and talks are expected to continue beyond next weekend while the Maori Party returns to Marae to conduct consultation hui around the country. Caretaker Prime Minister, Helen Clark, said today: “Discussions have been occurring in the past two weeks with the aim of forming working relationships between Labour and other parties. I now look forward to engaging further with those parties that have expressed a willingness to discuss arrangements with us. “Further talks to progress arrangements around forming a government are likely to be held in the coming week,” Helen Clark said.
| ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
25 November Minister Responsible for the Law Commission Mark Burton has announced that he has recommended Sir Geoffrey Palmer for appointment as the new President of the Law Commission. "I have recommended the appointment of Sir Geoffrey to the Administrator of the Government, the Rt Hon Dame Sian Elias," Mark Burton said. "I believe Sir Geoffrey's many years of eminent experience in the law will be a tremendous asset to the Law Commission. "The Administrator will formally confirm the appointment of the President of the Law Commission on Monday," Mark Burton said. Sir Geoffrey will replace Justice Bruce Robertson, who resigned in June following his appointment to the Court of Appeal. 21 November The NZ First Party held its annual general meeting yesterday and members elected former MP Dail Jones to replace Doug Woolerton as President. 11 November Nandor Tanczos will be taking a seat as a Member of Parliament for the Green Party. Mr Tanczos missed out on a seat in parliament at the general election earlier this year. However, the untimely death of Green party co-leader Rod Donald created a vacancy for him to enter as the next person on the list. "Rod always encouraged me to be myself within the constrained environment of Parliament and I intend to do that, with a vengeance," said Mr Tanczos. 9 November The process for selecting a new Chief of Defence Force and chiefs of the Army and Air Force will begin this month, Defence Minister Phil Goff has announced. "The Chief of Defence Force, Air Marshal Bruce Ferguson, had advised me that his contract, and those of the Chief of Army, Major General Jerry Mateparae, and the Chief of Air Force, Air Vice Marshal John Hamilton, end in February next year and that succession planning should now commence," Mr Goff said. "The government expects to be able to notify the Governor-General of the recommendations for appointments early in the New Year," Mr Goff said. 9 November Prime Minister Helen Clark has said that the election of New Zealander Sir Kenneth Keith to the International Court of Justice is a truly significant achievement for both Sir Kenneth Keith and New Zealand. The vote took place at the United Nations in New York on Monday (NY time). “There has never been a New Zealand judge elected to the Court in the nearly 60 years of its existence. “Sir Ken’s outstanding qualifications, together with New Zealand’s reputation as a staunch advocate of the rule of law and an active and constructive participant in international affairs, have led to this historic result. “Sir Kenneth has excellent credentials to serve on the Court, with an impressive blend of international legal and academic expertise. “The ICJ is the world’s pre-eminent international court and the United Nations’ principal judicial arm. New Zealand has brought cases before it twice, both related to French nuclear testing in the Pacific. “Sir Kenneth’s bid for election to the ICJ has been the most important international candidature New Zealand has run for years. “Competition to serve on such a prestigious body is fierce and it has been a tough campaign. New Zealand, Spain and the US were competing for two seats on the Court. “I warmly congratulate Sir Kenneth. He will be a great asset to the Court, and his election reinforces New Zealand’s strong commitment to that body," Helen Clark said. 8 November National MP Clem Simich was elected deputy to the Speaker, Margaret Wilson. And the Labour MPs Anne Hartley and Ross Robertson were elected as assistant speakers. Mr Simich and Mr Robertson were both elected unopposed. 8 November National Party Leader Don Brash has today announced the following portfolio changes: Pansy Wong: gains Commerce 8 November Parliament is set to debate select committee membership this afternoon. An initial list of proposed chairpeople and deputies follows: Finance and expenditure: Shane Jones (L), John Key (N); Specialist committees: Standing orders: Margaret Wilson (L), Clem Simich (N); 8 November Debate on the speech will not begin until next week and tomorrow's sitting of the new Parliament will be given over to tributes to the Green co-leader Rod Donald, who died at the weekend, and the former Prime Minister David Lange, who died earlier this year. Parliament will not sit at all on Thursday to enable MP's to attend Mr Donald's funeral in Christchurch. Yesterday, senior Labour MP Margaret Wilson was been re-elected uncontested as Parliament’s Speaker and 120 MPs were sworn in. In her acceptance speech Ms Wilson made special mention of Mr Donald, who served three terms in Parliament and was elected for a fourth. MPs from across the political spectrum paused to pay their respects before the House got down to business, and party leaders paid brief tributes to Mr Donald when they rose to congratulate the new Speaker. Mäori Party leader Tariana Turia and her Te Tai Tokerau MP Hone Harawira were later the only MPs not to stand to their feet to applaud Ms Wilson’s election. An earlier attempt by the four Mäori Party MPs to each refer to the Treaty of Waitangi when they were sworn in created the only tension in the unusually solemn proceedings. The Clerk of the House, David McGee, insisted quietly that they swear the affirmation set down in law, and one by one they complied. Mr Donald’s five caucus colleagues arrived early in the House to place his photograph – aptly framed in green - and a candle at his empty possum-fur-covered seat. At the end of the ceremony, MPs stood for a minute’s silence to mark his passing.
| ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
6 November Green Party co-leader Rod Donald died last night at around midnight at his home in Christchurch. Mr Donald, who was 48, had last week been ill with a chest infection, but it is understood that a heart attack caused his death. Mr Donald was well known for his honesty and honourable nature – a man true to his principles and was seen by many as this new Parliament's man of human and community ideals. Mr Donald is survived by his partner Nicola and daughters, Holly, Emma, and Zoe. Other political leaders were told of Mr Donald's death this morning. Helen Clark said she was shocked to hear of the news and deeply saddened by it. “My thoughts are with Rod’s partner, Nicola, his family, friends and Green Party colleagues, who have suffered a tremendous loss. “I have known Rod Donald since he entered Parliament in 1996, and worked with him for the past six years during which Green Party support and goodwill has been indispensable for our government. “In all that time Rod has been a very honourable person to deal with. He always impressed me with both the strength of his convictions and his ability to work within the parliamentary system to resolve issues. “Rod Donald was unfailingly pleasant, likeable, and always looking for a constructive way forward. “Rod committed his life to environmental and community causes, becoming active in many issues from his teenage years. His interests spanned decent housing, urban recycling, fair trade, and electoral reform. “Rod gained a national profile from his work on the electoral referenda in the early 1990s. He was a strong advocate for MMP, and entered Parliament as a Green Party member within the Alliance in 1996. “Rod Donald had remarkable energy and great zest for life. It is a cruel fate indeed which strikes down someone with so much to give in the prime of his life. He will be greatly missed,” Helen Clark said. 3 November National Party Leader Don Brash has relieved Rakaia MP Brian Connell of his portfolio responsibilities, following a series of "destructive and ill-disciplined" comments over a long period. Mr Connell will be left unranked in the National Party Caucus line-up. "National is focused on providing a clear alternative to this already tired and discredited Government. “Clearly Mr Connell, who has said that his National Party membership is irrelevant when he conducts his duties and forms his views, is unable to continue to represent National Party policy. He no longer has my confidence or that of the president," says Dr Brash. The Party Board will, at a future meeting, determine if any further action is warranted. Mr Connell was the National Party spokesman on Forestry, Commerce, Consumer Affairs and Statistics. 2 November The Green Party has appointed Metiria Turei musterer (whip) for this term of parliament. She replaces co-leader Rod Donald so he can devote more time to a Buy Kiwi-Made campaign that he is developing in conjunction with the Government. 2 November Leader of the House Michael Cullen announced today that the government would support Margaret Wilson to be returned as Speaker and National list MP Clem Simich as Deputy Speaker. "It is hoped that this balanced approach will assist toward a more disciplined and constructive spirit in Parliament," Dr Cullen said. He said that, as Assistant Speaker in the last Parliament, Mr Simich had gained a reputation for impartiality. The government's nominations for Assistant Speaker will be Ross Robertson and Ann Hartley. Ann Hartley was Deputy Speaker in the last term and Ross Robertson an Assistant Speaker. 1 November Labour’s caucus has elected Christchurch Central MP Tim Barnett to be its new senior whip. Mr Barnett replaces Jill Pettis who is stepping down to concentrate on winning back the Whanganui seat which she lost in the September election. Otaki MP Darren Hughes, was re-elected junior whip. Mr Barnett said his former role as chairman of Parliament’s justice
and electoral select committee was a good preparation for the whip’s
job, which involves managing Labour MPs in the House and delivering
enough votes for Government legislation. 1 November National Party Leader Don Brash today named Wayne Eagleson, currently Transpower’s general manager, public affairs, as his new chief of staff. “Mr Eagleson will bring to the position exceptional skills, both in politics and public affairs, and a thorough knowledge of the National Party and its policies,” Dr Brash says. Mr Eagleson, 41, is expected to take up the position in mid-November. He replaces Richard Long, who is standing down.
| ||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
23 December Education Minister Steve Maharey has announced a replacement Chair for the New Zealand Qualifications Authority. Sue Suckling, who is currently Chair of the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research, AgriQuality, Barkers Fruit Processors, the Oxford Clinic in Christchurch and the Carson Group and a member of the Takeovers Panel, will take on the role from March 2006. The previous Chair, Graeme Fraser, resigned in May after two damning reports into the organisation's handling of the 2004 school scholarship exams. Chief Executive Karen Van Rooyen left at the same time. Acting chairwoman Catherine Gibson will continue in the role until March when she will revert to being a board member. 21 December Broadcasting Minister Steve Maharey has announced the appointment of Sir John Anderson, the retiring Chief Executive of ANZ National Bank, as the new Chair of Television New Zealand (TVNZ) when current chair Craig Boyce' stands down in April. Sir John initially replaced Dame Ann Hercus, who resigned as a Board
member last week. 15 December The Ministers of Justice and Mäori Affairs, Mark Burton and Parekura Horomia have announced that the Mäori Electoral Option will run from April to August 2006. The Mäori Electoral Option will give Mäori the opportunity to choose whether to be enrolled on the general electoral roll or the Mäori electoral roll. "The Mäori Electoral Option is held as close as possible to the five yearly New Zealand Population and Dwelling Census which is being held in March. "Updated statistics from the Census are used to determine the number of electorates for the next scheduled general election. "Currently some 380,000 people identified of Mäori descent are enrolled to vote. 210,000 people are on the Mäori electoral roll. "The decisions Mäori make during the Mäori Electoral Option also helps decide the number of Mäori electorates for the next election," Mark Burton said. "The first four Mäori seats were established by the Mäori Representation Act in 1867. One hundred and twenty-six years later in 1993 this number was increased to 5 by the electoral act. Nine years on from then the number of Mäori seats rose to 7 - what we have today," said Parekura Horomia. "Since the 1868 general election that first brought Mäori
MPs into existence there have been in excess of 80 Mäori members
of parliament (many of this number have served multiple terms),"
Parekura Horomia added. | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|
