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Introduction

Good morning.

First of all, I’d like to thank Mr Lawrey for the introduction and Chartered Accountants Australia New Zealand for the opportunity to speak today.

I’m thrilled to be here for my first formal speaking engagement as the Associate Minister of Tourism. What an incredible time it is right now for tourism in New Zealand. I’m excited to get involved and be a champion for the sector.

Tourism in New Zealand

I am delighted to be here with you this afternoon in Hawera to open CCS Disability Action’s new site. A warm welcome to everyone here this afternoon.

I would like to acknowledge the TSB Community Trust and the many generous donors that made this all possible. I would also like to acknowledge Mayors Ross Dunlop and Neil Volzke, the local Iwi and my colleague Chester Burrows.

Tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou katoa.

I am delighted to be attending my first Conference of States Parties in my role as Minister for Disability Issues. This is a role which allows me to advocate for persons with disabilities at the highest levels of Government.

The New Zealand Government warmly welcomes the appointment of Ms Catalina Devandas Aguilar as Special Rapporteur on Disability. We believe her wide and long standing experience working for the rights of persons with disabilities will serve her well in this important role.