05/19/2022 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 05/18/2022 20:43
Budget 2022 further strengthens the economic foundations and wellbeing outcomes for Pacific peoples in Aotearoa, as the recovery from COVID-19 continues.
"The priorities we set for Budget 2022 will support the continued delivery of our commitments for Pacific peoples through the Pacific Wellbeing Strategy, a 2020 manifesto commitment for Pacific Aotearoa," Aupito William Sio said.
"This strategy is aimed at lifting Pacific wellbeing and aspirations in health, housing, education, business, employment, incomes, leadership, Pacific arts, sports, music and STEAM career pathways.
"Our recovery from COVID-19 includes Pacific wellbeing priorities to lift Pacific incomes, skills and opportunities that endures through access to safe, affordable and stable housing.
"Working closely with our Pacific communities to deliver and support Pacific-led responses will be critical to supporting their resilience, recovery, and an accelerated upwards mobility," Aupito William Sio said.
The Pacific package includes:
"Funding from Budget 2022 for initiatives like housing aligns strongly with the Lalanga Fou goals that aim to provide access to more affordable homes for Pacific peoples, which for our nation is an important indicator of economic wellbeing.
"This Government is committed to delivering on its Dawn Raids apology package in this Budget as well. The package will give greater public understanding of what Dawn Raids means to our nation and to enable the Teu le Va- to help restore harmonious relationships of mana and dignity, and empower our young people especially to be resilient, confident and vibrant.
"It includes the Teu le Va Community Fund for community-led multimedia history projects, Ministry for Pacific Peoples-led initiatives to produce a historical account report, a fund for Pacific artists and historians to complete professional arts and history projects and an online Pacific histories platform.
"Pacific peoples signalled that they are seeking meaningful commitment to the Dawn Raids apology, which allows us as a nation to move forward together with alofa (love/care) and fa'aaloalo (respect).
"Budget 2022 will also help accelerate Pacific Aotearoa's economic and social recovery from COVID-19 so that Pacific peoples aren't left behind. The significant investments from Budget 2022 will help us to forge ahead creating jobs and income streams for families.
"The Pacific package further highlights this Government's commitment to supporting Pacific peoples' vision and wellbeing approach by using the Lalanga Fou goals to continue growing thriving, confident and resilient Pacific peoples in Aotearoa New Zealand," Aupito William Sio said.