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Mr Speaker

We want to congratulate the Hon David Carter as the Speaker-Elect  to this House.

One of the things that we have noted is that you have had an ability to build relationships because of your thoughtful and constructive manner.

I first came to know you, in fact, when I went with you on the Speaker’s tour to Europe with the Hon Doug Kidd.  As a new member of Parliament at the time, I certainly appreciated the wonderful support that you and your wife gave to me and my husband and I have never forgotten that.

Ladies and Gentlemen

I hope you all had a good Christmas break and that you’re starting 2013 eager and energised.

I know I am.

And I know the Government is, because there are a lot of things to get done this year.

We have a re-energised team of Ministers, which I announced earlier this week.

And we have a very busy agenda.

Whether it’s welfare reform, law and order, education, the rebuild of Christchurch, or continuing our improvements in public services, it’s full steam ahead.

E ngā mana, e ngā reo, e ngā karangatanga maha, tēnā koutou katoa.

Thank you for inviting me here today. This is my first official speaking engagement for 2013 and what better way to begin the working year than with a visit here today with Te Taitimu Trust – an iwi based organisation that is focusing on the future of their rangatahi.

To all the rangatahi who have come here to take part in this leadership wānanga – I congratulate you and acknowledge you for participating in what I am certain will be an inspiring and challenging five days.