"\u003C!DOCTYPE html\u003E\u003Chtml xmlns:xlink=\u0022http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink\u0022 xmlns:xsi=\u0022http://www.w3.org/2007/XMLSchema-instance\u0022 xmlns:mml=\u0022http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML\u0022\u003E\n  \u003Chead\u003E\n    \u003CMETA http-equiv=\u0022Content-Type\u0022 content=\u0022text/html; charset=utf-16\u0022\u003E\n    \u003Cmeta name=\u0022viewport\u0022 content=\u0022width=device-width, initial-scale=1\u0022\u003E\n  \u003C/head\u003E\n  \u003Cbody style=\u0022font-family:sans-serif; font-size:100%;\u0022\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000001\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u002283886b1e21a9452cba79077336a281e5\u0022\u003EThursday, 10 March 2011\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000003\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022c167a1cea78846238827d1b62273c61e\u0022\u003EThursday, 10 March 2011\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000002\u0022\u003EMr Speaker took the Chair at 2 p.m.\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000004\u0022\u003EPrayers.\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000005\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u0022164c7be1a89a43c88583885a93f0a073\u0022\u003EBusiness Statement\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000007\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u002204e25c6a239f4b579916aa0d057788f6\u0022\u003EBusiness Statement\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022803002d1-e810-4bd8-b8e7-2e97d0d6f626\u0022 data-id=\u00223dc8cf90afbd447dade67ce87c2df9a9\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000006\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022803002d1-e810-4bd8-b8e7-2e97d0d6f626\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00223dc8cf90afbd447dade67ce87c2df9a9\u0022\u003EHon SIMON POWER (Acting Leader of the House):\u003C/span\u003E Next week it is the Government\u2019s intention to make further progress on the Marine and Coastal Area (Takutai Moana) Bill.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022 data-id=\u0022269261194e6a45039512cca1304c8fb3\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000008\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022269261194e6a45039512cca1304c8fb3\u0022\u003EHon TREVOR MALLARD (Labour\u2014Hutt South):\u003C/span\u003E Can I seek from the Acting Leader of the House an undertaking that there is a continuance of the previous undertaking not to take that bill under urgency.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022803002d1-e810-4bd8-b8e7-2e97d0d6f626\u0022 data-id=\u002214ddf0a7985445f5ba056498c17fa18f\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000009\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022803002d1-e810-4bd8-b8e7-2e97d0d6f626\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002214ddf0a7985445f5ba056498c17fa18f\u0022\u003EHon SIMON POWER (Acting Leader of the House):\u003C/span\u003E Correct.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000010\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u002224152749bff949219683c38f703e23fd\u0022\u003EChamber, Lobbies, and Galleries\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000011\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u00221134776a4b2b448690ebc2bd7aeabe01\u0022\u003ECustoms Training Programme\u2014Graduates\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00224a11ce4e-9fb3-4738-b0be-5a9f81d975da\u0022 data-id=\u00227db0e3979b3c4c058069ed1f1a0a5a19\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000012\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a11ce4e-9fb3-4738-b0be-5a9f81d975da\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00227db0e3979b3c4c058069ed1f1a0a5a19\u0022\u003EHon MAURICE WILLIAMSON (Minister of Customs):\u003C/span\u003E I draw to the House\u2019s attention that in the gallery today we have a stunning group of fine New Zealanders who are graduating from the customs training programme and becoming customs officers.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000013\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u0022374a41fdfa594d85bff60c101e5724e3\u0022\u003EQuestions for Oral Answer\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000014\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022e9347fc90e51469582c85d43f3a5dedb\u0022\u003EQuestions to Ministers\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000015\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022e5004302a7bf4eae918f9115b8ecabe0\u0022\u003EEarthquake, Christchurch\u2014Government Support for People Affected\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022 data-id=\u00227a4865e86b2b4c83b2490ddc0c70dcf9\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000016\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E1. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00227a4865e86b2b4c83b2490ddc0c70dcf9\u0022\u003EHon ANNETTE KING (Deputy Leader\u2014Labour)\u003C/span\u003E to the Prime Minister: Is he satisfied that all systems set up pursuant to commitments he has given to assist residents following the Christchurch earthquake are appropriate and working?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022 data-id=\u0022618b3674462947cf8d711d081352be06\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000017\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022618b3674462947cf8d711d081352be06\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH (Deputy Prime Minister) \u003C/span\u003Eon behalf of the Prime Minister: Generally yes, but due to severe damage in the eastern suburbs some households may well be without power, water, and sewerage for some time yet. However, I want to assure people that everything that can be done is being done to restore essential infrastructure.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000018\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002265b98edb310c4be8a634a8f90ef4e937\u0022\u003EHon Annette King\u003C/span\u003E: Will he ask the Minister of Finance to issue a direction under section 12 of the Earthquake Commission Act requiring prompt and direct payment for rebuilding in Christchurch, in light of comments by the master plumbers\u2019 chairman, Mark Whitehead, and builder Nick Rogers, who said today that they are refusing to carry out rebuilding work for the Earthquake Commission because they do not get paid, and they are now requiring distressed homeowners to pay cash up front before any work is done?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000019\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022482dd94362bf4179b7f0b7784cbe5375\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: I do not think that the Earthquake Commission would need a direction to ensure that it does as much as it can do to expedite the rebuilding process. I understand the pressure particularly on contractors who were expecting the rebuild from the first earthquake to be well under way now. That has been delayed by maybe a month or two. But we will work with the commission to ensure it does it as fast as it can.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000020\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d2943a83e92142c3901774f18598497f\u0022\u003EHon Annette King\u003C/span\u003E: In light of that answer, will the Prime Minister ask the Minister of Finance to take urgent steps to ensure contractors and subcontractors who are owed thousands of dollars by the Earthquake Commission for emergency work done after the September quake are paid, given that in order to avoid their businesses failing, with the loss of hundreds of jobs, some businesses have already taken out loans to stay afloat?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000021\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002272fa4aa8e1fb43bbbb5baff95c1e434b\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: Certainly, if there are contractors who have not been paid, and who should have been paid according to normal credit terms, then the Earthquake Commission should get on and do that. But I think the significant shorter-term problem concerning the construction industry in Christchurch was its expectation that it would be gearing up quite rapidly now, and that has been delayed by the second earthquake. All the parties involved, though, now have a great deal more experience in how to get this work under way faster, and I hope it will be under way faster than last time round.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000022\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220c090497bf4141138d79490009e19abd\u0022\u003EHon Annette King\u003C/span\u003E: Does he agree with Mayor Bob Parker that landlords who are hiking up rents on houses and business premises in Christchurch are \u201Clooting by another name\u201D, and has he considered taking action similar to that of the Federal Government of the United States following Hurricane Katrina, when it limited the increase in rents, etc. to no more than 10 percent to prevent greedy landlords from profiting from other people\u2019s misery?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000023\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229ec151ce883e44d3bc9b1a4159f1426a\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: We would share the mayor\u2019s concern if there is significant profiteering. The Government will be listening to the advice of the Minister for Canterbury Earthquake Recovery, who is on the ground and also shares those concerns.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000024\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00222f8559c9b97745778dbb273c18e5eae0\u0022\u003EHon Annette King\u003C/span\u003E: Who is collating and acting on information about vulnerable residents\u2014for example, elderly people who are living alone, people who are bedridden, and those with disabilities\u2014when some have been visited several times by various agencies, including M\u0101ori wardens, the police, the army, social agencies, etc., and others have not been visited at all, and how can the Government ensure that these people get the assistance they need?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000025\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002271f2b40478cc48429fea2db45f4db872\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: As the member has pointed out, a number of agencies regard it as their obligation to contact vulnerable people who simply do not have the capacity to deal with the difficult circumstances they find themselves in. There is quite a bit of work going on to try to coordinate those efforts, to ensure that there is complete coverage and no one is left out.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000026\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022039980fbd6b34199ba32aaf289a5c3af\u0022\u003EHon Annette King\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. I really appreciate that answer, but would the Minister be able to tell us by whom\u2014that is the issue. Who is collating and acting on this information? That is the core of the question.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000027\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ac169d29-4849-42c2-a4a7-f344fd416503\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022dc1e0ee421a843759ea5b1c9ba337f85\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: What I will do is to allow the member to repeat her question, but do keep it succinct.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000028\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002264ce8438bd34472cbb8be95b57aea7bf\u0022\u003EHon Annette King\u003C/span\u003E: Who is collating and acting on the information about vulnerable citizens in Christchurch, some of whom have been visited by many agencies and some have not been visited; who is ensuring that they get the services they need?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000029\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022229a1af7b68c4e37a4bce223eb4ce46f\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: I would not want to give the member an exact answer about that specific task. It is quite likely that the Ministry of Social Development is the primary Government agency for delivery of the contact by telephone calls, the social assistance with the Earthquake Commission assessors\u2014social workers going around with the assessors\u2014and setting up the neighbourhood offices that give more people easier access to the support. But I will check to see whether the ministry is performing that particular task.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000030\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221fb8d8db-3e96-49c7-ab1c-b7916a50e30e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022dc3795bc12d641739fb6ae2c493c3710\u0022\u003EHon Steve Chadwick\u003C/span\u003E: What procedures will be followed when determining which heritage buildings damaged by the earthquake will be demolished?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000031\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022691f2375b48c4e6bb884085c2c2414b6\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: I cannot answer that question in detail, because it is the subject of discussion between the civil defence controller, the Minister for Canterbury Earthquake Recovery, and the Christchurch City Council. But clearly there needs to be a transparent and predictable process for dealing with that issue.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000032\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221fb8d8db-3e96-49c7-ab1c-b7916a50e30e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022147275bd532b434fbba11ff114f31e57\u0022\u003EHon Steve Chadwick\u003C/span\u003E: Does he agree with the comments of the Minister for Canterbury Earthquake Recovery on the preservation of heritage buildings: \u201CThere is a need to move fairly quickly\u201D, and \u201Cif I had my way they\u2019d be down tomorrow.\u201D?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000033\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e2d91306961b41da9fd88bd1954e3940\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: The Minister has expressed a view that a number of older buildings that, after the first earthquake, were regarded as heritage buildings worth preserving have now collapsed and killed people. He has expressed the view that some of those buildings should be dealt with, because they are dangerous. We would expect that regardless of whether they are heritage buildings, if they are a danger to public safety they should be dealt with shortly. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000034\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022ba6b60ce23d644a8aa5e85f2ab47badc\u0022\u003EEconomy\u2014Reserve Bank Forecasts, 10 March 2011\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022 data-id=\u002261e43dd70ee04de2b8996a270ef4181d\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000035\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003E2. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002261e43dd70ee04de2b8996a270ef4181d\u0022\u003EDAVID BENNETT (National\u2014Hamilton East)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of Finance: What do this morning\u2019s Reserve Bank economic forecasts show?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022 data-id=\u0022947ed425e482438c8606f1a93568fac3\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000036\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022947ed425e482438c8606f1a93568fac3\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH (Minister of Finance):\u003C/span\u003E The forecasts show that both consumer spending and business investment increased only modestly in the second half of 2010. There were recently some signs of an upturn but the earthquake has had a significant impact. The immediate impact will be to cut GDP by about 0.6 percent in the March quarter, and the Reserve Bank believes that growth this year will be relatively weak. The earthquake impact comes on top of an economy that was already a bit weaker than expected before Christmas. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000037\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229db59cb8ac3142c8a0703d8db9b7e358\u0022\u003EDavid Bennett\u003C/span\u003E: What is the outlook for interest rates and exchange rates over the next few years?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000038\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ed541c98206e46e1ad6a8e98300bd28b\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: Although the Reserve Bank is forecasting growth to peak at over 4 percent in 2013 and unemployment to reach below 5 percent, it believes that the interest rate cycle will be relatively subdued. Inflation is expected to be stable, and the picture on interest rates is similar. Although the current low official cash rate will not last indefinitely, the bank projects that 90-day rates will lift gradually to 4.6 percent by 2014, which is a low peak compared with the last cycle, where the official cash rate reached almost double that figure. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000039\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022dc913b0b457e440288fe8082a9043155\u0022\u003EDavid Bennett\u003C/span\u003E: What discussions took place between the Government and the Reserve Bank prior to today\u2019s official cash rate announcement?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000040\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b294147069d6486caa246426d330eb58\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: More discussion took place than usual. About 2 weeks ago, just after the quake, the Reserve Bank contacted us and suggested that in the presence of a national emergency policy makers might best be mutually informed of the likely crisis response. We agreed and we briefed the bank on the emergency measures that the Government was taking and how it was likely to impact on the 2011 Budget. The bank, in turn, described its own economic forecasts, its thoughts on the appropriate stance for monetary policy, and the availability of cash and banking services in Christchurch. At all times the official cash rate decision remained with the governor; I was not entirely sure until this morning what the decision would be.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000041\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221e2f25baf86448229044f28b873cab29\u0022\u003EDavid Bennett\u003C/span\u003E: What are the implications of today\u2019s forecasts for the rest of the Government\u2019s programme?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000042\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00226dced1859fda45d299884b5c42af486e\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: It is good to see that the projections of the Reserve Bank include increases in household savings. According to the bank, New Zealanders will continue to increase their savings rate. The bank expects that the Government will be back to financial surplus around 2014-15. This projection fits in with our own intentions. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000043\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u002222e25ce740444a5883f95cd1f7aec958\u0022\u003EOfficial Cash Rate\u2014Reduction\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e0192ed9-5715-4f6c-bd52-8db4f3466087\u0022 data-id=\u0022b41f34f0f49144f2afb1cbaedbee4619\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000044\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e0192ed9-5715-4f6c-bd52-8db4f3466087\u0022\u003E3. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022b41f34f0f49144f2afb1cbaedbee4619\u0022\u003EHon DAVID CUNLIFFE (Labour\u2014New Lynn)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of Finance: By what amount has the Reserve Bank lowered the official cash rate today, and what reason has the bank given for this action?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022 data-id=\u002244810c3a65274e5d99318c55a2a0b7fa\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000045\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002244810c3a65274e5d99318c55a2a0b7fa\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH (Minister of Finance):\u003C/span\u003E As the member will know, the governor has reduced the official cash rate by 50 basis points to 2.5 percent. It noted that the Christchurch earthquake had caused considerable disruption. Although it is difficult to know how large or long lasting this will be, the bank has said that economic activity will be negatively affected. Secondly, the Reserve Bank noted, as I have previously in the House, that before the earthquake the growth was weaker than expected through the second half of 2010, because households had been careful with their money and the agricultural sector has been paying off its debt. The Reserve Bank noted that the signs that the economy was picking up in early 2011 have been more than offset by the earthquake.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000046\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e0192ed9-5715-4f6c-bd52-8db4f3466087\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224496019cf60a45638ba8fcbab03776bd\u0022\u003EHon David Cunliffe\u003C/span\u003E: By how much did the Reserve Bank revise downwards its estimate of economic growth in the last quarter of 2010 in today\u2019s Monetary Policy Statement?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000047\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022481e9d9bc4d641d3a5d99007309b1d23\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: I cannot give the member an exact answer, but I am sure it did revise it down. I think if we go back we will find that it has revised down its forecasts for two or three quarters of this year, as well.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000048\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e0192ed9-5715-4f6c-bd52-8db4f3466087\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022296ebbe361f546b48f13997b98b4ce54\u0022\u003EHon David Cunliffe\u003C/span\u003E: Given that the bank has revised down its pre-earthquake forecast for the last quarter of last year, and confirmed that the economy was either flat or in recession for the last two quarters of last year, can the Minister say how much his tax cuts stimulated the economy, given the bank\u2019s comments that \u201CEven before the earthquake, GDP growth was much weaker than expected\u201D?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000049\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228ff59685c3b147d482b6e0bc2c73c829\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: It is always hard to judge what might have happened if we had not put up the tax package. I think it is important to remember, though, that the tax package was broadly fiscally neutral. It was not expected to stimulate the economy, because whatever people were getting through income tax cuts they were paying back to the Government through higher GST or higher tax on property.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000050\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e0192ed9-5715-4f6c-bd52-8db4f3466087\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022978debbef9a94036b7330e48f4228ab8\u0022\u003EHon David Cunliffe\u003C/span\u003E: Have households been net savers or dissavers in the last 2 years according to Reserve Bank data released today?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000051\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224e60a421a91a4d1eabcecafba78e8a38\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: I think the data will show that\u2014to use the member\u2019s term\u2014the rate of dissaving has slowed. In 2007 New Zealand households were spending something like $1.11 for every dollar they earned. The Reserve Bank forecasts show that we will have positive savings rates over the next 12 or 18 months for the first time in 20 years. That is good for the economy.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000052\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e0192ed9-5715-4f6c-bd52-8db4f3466087\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022753d6e857b884b65bc6177d2de3881cb\u0022\u003EHon David Cunliffe\u003C/span\u003E: Given that the Reserve Bank has confirmed today that it estimates households will not actually start positive saving until 2013, and have continued to increase their borrowings since the Minister took office, how can he possibly blame the deepening national recession on household saving?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000053\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002241a34f08561f4c6786f6667686c7e4a8\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: Well, I disagree with the member\u2019s idea of a deepening national recession. The fact is that the usual way in which the New Zealand economy recovers is for people to go back to the shops, go back to the housing market, and start spending on the back of easier credit. That is simply not happening this time, because banks are not going to lend more money to people to drive up house prices and to encourage retailing. So people are saving, and they are getting on top of their debt. That means a flatter economy in the short term but a stronger one in the long term.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000054\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220fc05f1c-47b0-4fb0-8298-2f347adae4e3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e0d4b68bf42d45fabe69edff30ac2b19\u0022\u003EHon Sir Roger Douglas\u003C/span\u003E: Will the Minister explain to the Prime Minister that his instructions to the Governor of the Reserve Bank on interest rates only create uncertainty in the minds of investors, particularly overseas investors, thereby killing off a good deal of investment that might otherwise have taken place?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000055\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022475753df0489488a9017acc9d1a90336\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: There were no instructions to the Reserve Bank governor. As he said this morning, he made the decision about interest rates on his view of the economy.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000056\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022ce72175f7b93430ca2deb8785feb22bf\u0022\u003EFuel Prices, Increase\u2014Effect on Economy\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002255bb390e-f6c3-498c-bbf6-ea1a8fc993c7\u0022 data-id=\u0022127ec1c4ae79483491a3cb7bdafbe0d6\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000057\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255bb390e-f6c3-498c-bbf6-ea1a8fc993c7\u0022\u003E4. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022127ec1c4ae79483491a3cb7bdafbe0d6\u0022\u003EGARETH HUGHES (Green)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of Finance: What will be the impact of the recent fuel price rise on the New Zealand economy, including impacts on GDP, consumer spending, and the current account?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022 data-id=\u002274a2572573a84c34be1a10a2b77b0534\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000058\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002274a2572573a84c34be1a10a2b77b0534\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH (Minister of Finance):\u003C/span\u003E The impact on each of those amounts will be adverse, but it is too early to say by how much. The spike in oil prices has happened fairly quickly, with prices trending up since September last year. The rise in prices at the pump has been boosted by the recent weakness of the New Zealand dollar, although that weakness in the New Zealand dollar is generally beneficial to the economy. What happens from here depends on how long the lift in international prices is sustained.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000059\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255bb390e-f6c3-498c-bbf6-ea1a8fc993c7\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002200f965f1a6ae48caa9da62a62a7745f8\u0022\u003EGareth Hughes\u003C/span\u003E: Does he agree with analysts at Morgan Stanley, who say that sharp increases in global oil prices pose the biggest threat to the global economy and that the last five major recessions followed oil price shocks?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000060\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00225846e70a650541c8bd6f35ddaffc37f8\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: I think we are all concerned about the impact of a sharp rise in oil prices, in terms of both the pressure it could put on households and the way it takes more resources from our economy to keep petrol and diesel running. However, we are resilient. The latest spike is not yet as big a spike as the one experienced in 2008. We have plenty to do to get this economy in better order, but we cannot actually influence the oil prices.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000061\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022659f6556-09a1-4ead-bc52-05cbdb4eaab8\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b75a60ecc90944bbaff1f7676fa0c101\u0022\u003ECraig Foss\u003C/span\u003E: What impact has the general lift in commodity prices had on New Zealand\u2019s income and economy?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000062\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022eef1b8b0501b46bb9be2190b7e511a55\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: We need to keep in mind that part of the general lift in commodity prices is record high prices for the commodities we sell, as well as higher prices for the ones we buy, such as oil. The net impact is measured by terms of trade. Overall, our terms of trade have lifted 25 percent in the past decade. New Zealand has been a net beneficiary from the significant increase in commodity prices, including the price of oil.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000063\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255bb390e-f6c3-498c-bbf6-ea1a8fc993c7\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002207c96288f7d544e29b907bd9aecc2477\u0022\u003EGareth Hughes\u003C/span\u003E: Does he expect\u2014as many commentators expect\u2014that the next decade will see continuing oil price spikes?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000064\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220ad08560677c4ef49ef7d4a7c9873ba9\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: It is possible. That is why, if we are to expect continued instability in oil prices, we need a resilient economy that is able to adapt quickly both in a straight economic sense and in terms of how people live their lives.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000065\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255bb390e-f6c3-498c-bbf6-ea1a8fc993c7\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022491cb149cf50420d848d54b837c42ec8\u0022\u003EGareth Hughes\u003C/span\u003E: Why does New Zealand not have a strategy to reduce our current vulnerability to higher oil prices, as many other countries do?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000066\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220c7113c6bd69401f91ab39e2f172e587\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: People are pretty sensible. When they see prices going up, they start thinking about whether they want to continue with their energy-intensive business or lifestyle. As it happens, over the years New Zealand, as I understand it, has become less energy-intensive in its production, which is a trend that will probably continue if oil prices keep going up. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000067\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255bb390e-f6c3-498c-bbf6-ea1a8fc993c7\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220d73b3d38b9b44839fe9079a64268145\u0022\u003EGareth Hughes\u003C/span\u003E: How is spending $10 billion on new motorways reducing our vulnerability to higher oil prices?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000068\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022cebecf1cfc564911a07784586fb46eee\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: Spending on the motorways creates a more efficient traffic system whereby commuters get better value out of what they invest in their cars, bus fares, and petrol. We are keen to make sure we finish the current roading infrastructure investment because, despite the earthquake, it is important for New Zealand\u2019s long-term productivity and standard of living.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000069\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255bb390e-f6c3-498c-bbf6-ea1a8fc993c7\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022af08bbfdb40a4b6c86bb2e672ce384f4\u0022\u003EGareth Hughes\u003C/span\u003E: For Kiwis who are struggling at the pump at the moment, how will the $10 billion the Government is spending on motorways help Kiwis who start walking or cycling and who flock to the buses and trains, as large numbers did in 2008 during the last oil shock?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000070\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220a76c13fbb3d4221a65f5ee1bb563eea\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: It will help in two ways. It means that when they catch the bus it will actually spend more of its time travelling than sitting at the traffic lights. Buses are the most common form of public transport, and they need efficient roads to be effective. They cannot be run on railway tracks. It is the same with cars. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000071\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255bb390e-f6c3-498c-bbf6-ea1a8fc993c7\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e074a3d72d2544e6a213081d30e2492c\u0022\u003EGareth Hughes\u003C/span\u003E: Will the Minister finally support an inquiry into how New Zealand can best protect its economy from high oil prices?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000072\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e5a03703333c44208bb7bfb0672037a7\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: Probably not. When we talk about strategies to deal with high oil prices, we see that the fact is that the best strategy is for people to see the price signals and change their behaviour accordingly. The Greens understand that strategy because it is the theory and practice behind the emissions trading system, which is precisely about sending a price signal to people, although in that case it is about carbon usage. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000073\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u00221a2627ed4201429b957d8535371b2382\u0022\u003EQuestion No. 5 to Minister\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022 data-id=\u0022828e70bcf81d45ad88a059e8253a5b8e\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000074\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022828e70bcf81d45ad88a059e8253a5b8e\u0022\u003EHon DAVID PARKER (Labour):\u003C/span\u003E I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. Given that neither the Minister for Economic Development nor the Acting Minister for Economic Development is in the Chamber, I seek leave to carry over my question to the next sitting day.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000075\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ac169d29-4849-42c2-a4a7-f344fd416503\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022829ce19795ed47b288f2a169aecc9ba9\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Leave is sought for the question to be carried over to the next sitting day. Is there is any objection to that? There is objection.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000076\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u002274543b59533043d08bb1d43a4b802767\u0022\u003EEconomic Development, Acting Minister\u2014Duration of Appointment\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022 data-id=\u002247d75e940e294f369daf50a6a1f43242\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000077\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003E5. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002247d75e940e294f369daf50a6a1f43242\u0022\u003EHon DAVID PARKER (Labour)\u003C/span\u003E to the Acting Minister for Economic Development: Has he been advised by the Prime Minister whether his appointment as Acting Minister for Economic Development is temporary or expected to carry on to the election?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022803002d1-e810-4bd8-b8e7-2e97d0d6f626\u0022 data-id=\u00226cb7b48cad074d1ab1be92f68d454eb8\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000078\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022803002d1-e810-4bd8-b8e7-2e97d0d6f626\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00226cb7b48cad074d1ab1be92f68d454eb8\u0022\u003EHon SIMON POWER (Acting Leader of the House)\u003C/span\u003E on behalf of the Acting Minister for Economic Development: No. The advice the Acting Minister received from the Prime Minister is the same as what he has stated publicly\u2014namely, that these changes have been made for the foreseeable future and will be kept under review as the recovery progresses. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000079\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221fad664bdfeb4b21900de79f249fa043\u0022\u003EHon David Parker\u003C/span\u003E: Given that his appointment is, as he has just said, for the foreseeable future, can he please tell the House what new plans he has to halt the slide in the New Zealand economy?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000080\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022803002d1-e810-4bd8-b8e7-2e97d0d6f626\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f99cad63d4dd43528204dc3618220ea6\u0022\u003EHon SIMON POWER\u003C/span\u003E: I can do no better than borrow a phrase from history used by the Hon John Tamihere in response to a similar type of question, and that answer was \u201CHeaps!\u201D.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000081\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a9061ced4e5a47e2a18182ee9ff4e60d\u0022\u003EHon David Parker\u003C/span\u003E: Is the Minister aware that there are already low levels of confidence in the economy, and does he think it was wise, then, for members of his Government to add to New Zealanders\u2019 feelings of insecurity by softening up the public for possible cuts to Working for Families and student loans?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000082\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022803002d1-e810-4bd8-b8e7-2e97d0d6f626\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a4b3fd32d9ef4170951a9dbae436c610\u0022\u003EHon SIMON POWER\u003C/span\u003E: In respect of the second part of the question, I do not believe that is what the Minister did, or what the Government has done, in any case.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000083\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f9636512cd10466ab83da790da60ce0c\u0022\u003EHon David Parker\u003C/span\u003E: Given those very low levels of confidence, why is the Government continuing to speculate on effective increases in taxes for middle-income New Zealanders via cuts to Working for Families and student loans?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000084\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022803002d1-e810-4bd8-b8e7-2e97d0d6f626\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b7de38de650647269e2215d4040fed12\u0022\u003EHon SIMON POWER\u003C/span\u003E: The member opposite should not assume any of those things and should wait and see what the Government has in store.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000085\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00226219828c6c9c49d9b069775ed28eee76\u0022\u003EHon David Parker\u003C/span\u003E: Why can the Minister not see that more responsible leadership is needed to ensure that the wheels of the economy turn rather than fall off, and when will he bring forward some new ideas to get the economy running?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000086\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022803002d1-e810-4bd8-b8e7-2e97d0d6f626\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00225e8fac2b74b043edb595f658b9d37715\u0022\u003EHon SIMON POWER\u003C/span\u003E: In respect of the first part of the question, responsible leadership in these areas is well and truly entrenched and under way.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000087\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022ba010c44d76b4a4ebfd2e9254c299161\u0022\u003EPublic Transport, Wellington\u2014Rail Network Improvements\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022a744a9a7-a2e8-401b-abfb-aec22a3818c8\u0022 data-id=\u0022545da3cff8cd40b5b4ae724edfd8ec34\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a744a9a7-a2e8-401b-abfb-aec22a3818c8\u0022\u003E6. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022545da3cff8cd40b5b4ae724edfd8ec34\u0022\u003EKATRINA SHANKS (National)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of Transport: What action is the Government taking to improve Wellington\u2019s train network?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022 data-id=\u0022d6c725801f2645c387c4c7f169487bb5\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000089\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022d6c725801f2645c387c4c7f169487bb5\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE (Minister of Transport):\u003C/span\u003E Today I announced a further funding package from the Government that will bring Wellington\u2019s metro rail back up to a high and reliable standard for commuters. The Government is committing a further $88 million for the upgrade of the remaining signalling and power supplies in Wellington. In addition, the Government will also co-fund the Greater Wellington Regional Council\u2019s $80 million refurbishment of the 30-year-old Ganz Mavag units with the help of the New Zealand Transport Agency. This funding comes on top of the existing $383 million upgrade, which includes the new Matangi trains. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000090\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a744a9a7-a2e8-401b-abfb-aec22a3818c8\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b6c6eb742b4a49c3a0d0cc22d32780ea\u0022\u003EKatrina Shanks\u003C/span\u003E: What other changes have been announced today as part of the package?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000091\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ecdd456139f042c7b30f6e7ef247fd8e\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: The Greater Wellington Regional Council has agreed to share the cost of, and responsibilities for, delivering these and future improvements to Wellington\u2019s rail system. The New Zealand Transport Agency will now fund rail on the same basis as it funds other forms of public transport, including a move to a 50 percent funding rate over 10 years, but also funding the capital improvements. The council will pay a realistic track access charge to KiwiRail, with a subsidy from the New Zealand Transport Agency that reflects the fair cost of maintaining the track and other assets. The Wellington rail network has been a considerable and ongoing source of frustration for many commuters and it took the previous Government a huge amount of time to get around to doing anything about it. This package, coupled with the previous investments, will transform the service into a modern, reliable public transport option for Wellingtonians.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000092\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c1344729731f4c5a84bb8aa874a4d8c9\u0022\u003EChris Hipkins\u003C/span\u003E: Why is the Government not funding the full cost of the Wellington rail upgrade, which will mean that Wellingtonians will face increased rates to fund the rest of it, and why should they not feel like they are getting the rough end of the deal, given that he is spending 15 times what he has allocated for Wellington rail on his \u201CHoliday Highway\u201D north of Auckland?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000093\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022188a7dd2aa214f0aadbd643b4d417330\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: I realise that Mr Hipkins is one of the Labour Party people who thinks that Government money is costless, but, actually, it is not; it comes from taxpayers. This is a very good partnership between taxpayers; the Greater Wellington Regional Council; KiwiRail, which is contributing some assets; and the New Zealand Transport Agency, which is contributing transport subsidies. It is a very good package and I am sure that the member could endorse it because it will be very good for Wellingtonians, including members of his own electorate.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000094\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002290ea1538-43e8-4257-bd80-df3ccd1e5f27\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002274e558be07064f2e8c0ffe99b435346d\u0022\u003EKris Faafoi\u003C/span\u003E: Will the Minister reassure Wellington rail commuters that they will not face fare increases until the service has actually improved; if not, why not?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000095\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220ebe6a80af7b4bfdbbaf74d01c41bfc8\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: If the member had done his research he would know that the fares for Wellington rail are set by the Greater Wellington Regional Council, not by the Government. That happens to be the reality of it. It is important to note, as we have said previously, that many years of mismanagement of the Wellington rail network\u2014including a good number of years by the previous Government before it got its act into gear and started making some form of investment\u2014has meant that there has to be a catch-up, which has to be met in a fair way between all the stakeholders, including passengers, ratepayers, and taxpayers.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000096\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220fc05f1c-47b0-4fb0-8298-2f347adae4e3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00226b5cb66499f2440b84c7d64194836adc\u0022\u003EHon Sir Roger Douglas\u003C/span\u003E: Has the Minister seen the comments of Dr Roderick Deane in a recent speech that the rail network will be valued at $14.5 billion by 2015, yet KiwiRail will not generate any surpluses over the next 5 years, and does he agree that pouring money into projects that do not yield any return is a sure path to fiscal crisis?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000097\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00225ff3869264044320a35aa006c54914f6\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: There is a whole range of answers and I am struggling to pick one. The point that I would make to Dr Deane is that one has a sunk asset that one has to decide whether one is going\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000098\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022426e0279031f4b10b41f313d84e05f7b\u0022\u003EHon Trevor Mallard\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. I just wonder whether instead of leaning over, the member could\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000099\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ac169d29-4849-42c2-a4a7-f344fd416503\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224122d9d4b3f843bd9d4ac12f9d690e95\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: No, I will not have that.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000100\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221b804a5675144bf4a4d65b314bd72049\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: One would think the member for Hutt South would have some interest\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000101\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ac169d29-4849-42c2-a4a7-f344fd416503\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224a7591e0ab0747109fc44cb80362e070\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: We will not have any of that. The House will come to order.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000102\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002247f976ccb4c241e590ab51d07cc8a7dd\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: The important thing, which perhaps Dr Deane does not realise, is that passenger transport in both Wellington and Auckland\u2014and, in fact, around the world\u2014have never made profits. They provide congestion benefits to motorists, which is why public transport subsidies are in place. In regards to his other assertions about the rail network generally, I do have concerns about the value of that asset. The Government certainly has concerns and we think the previous Government overpaid hugely to return that asset to the public fold. We are making the best of a bad situation and seeking to get the best possible return we can from that asset. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000103\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022196a7847f56f4c5d8f30c69418b61791\u0022\u003EPike River Mine Tragedy\u2014Government Funding for Recovery of Victims\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022471dee54-f59e-4497-b3d3-c39044ce7169\u0022 data-id=\u0022d7002b37b4c7404989516aa75dd3bd52\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000104\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022471dee54-f59e-4497-b3d3-c39044ce7169\u0022\u003E7. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022d7002b37b4c7404989516aa75dd3bd52\u0022\u003EHon DAMIEN O\u2019CONNOR (Labour)\u003C/span\u003E to the Prime Minister: Can he assure the families of those killed in the Pike River mine disaster that Government funding will be available for the recovery of bodies, given the mine is now in the receivers\u2019 hands?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022 data-id=\u00223748a8da928f434a9d0dcd11442b0a52\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000105\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00223748a8da928f434a9d0dcd11442b0a52\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH (Deputy Prime Minister)\u003C/span\u003E on behalf of the Prime Minister: As the Government has said many times, the key issue in deciding whether the recovery of the bodies could take place is the safety and stability of the mine. Money has not been an issue.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000106\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022471dee54-f59e-4497-b3d3-c39044ce7169\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00223715b92322b74a1b8c17ed0e14d377b4\u0022\u003EHon Damien O\u2019Connor\u003C/span\u003E: How can the grieving families of the 29 Pike River miners trapped in the mine be reassured that every effort is being made to recover their remains, when receiver John Fisk has stated that \u201Cthe body recovery operation is the responsibility of the police and that operation stopped some time ago.\u201D, and when the receiver has now announced the possible sale of the whole mine?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000107\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002229135e9805784a1d999914062571b1af\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: The recovery operation by the police came to an end simply because it appeared to be making no progress in the face of the difficulties of stabilising the mine and making it safe to go in there. Authorities such as the police maintain the same interest in the recovery of the bodies, regardless of who owns the mine.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000108\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022471dee54-f59e-4497-b3d3-c39044ce7169\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c855d59d88494d8a9894fc31bd14d471\u0022\u003EHon Damien O\u2019Connor\u003C/span\u003E: Can the Prime Minister then assure the families that any new owner of the mine will also have a legal and moral obligation to pay for the recovery of the remains of their loved ones who are still trapped in the mine?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000109\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022281e0a1ae4c94bab8c1e505cd457435b\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: The member is raising some complicated issues, I think, to do with conferring an obligation on an owner in the face of the stability and safety problems in the mine. That is a matter that no doubt we could get some advice on, but I would simply restate the case: money has not been an issue. There has been significant money spent there in order to try to get some safety and stability in the mine. Unfortunately, that has not occurred, but the authorities still maintain the same interest in the cause of death and the recovery of those bodies.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000110\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022471dee54-f59e-4497-b3d3-c39044ce7169\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00223ff77c9832944653b7fc0c7b8fcdf194\u0022\u003EHon Damien O\u2019Connor\u003C/span\u003E: Does the Prime Minister\u2019s statement \u201CI gave a commitment to the families at Pike River that I would do everything I could to get their men out and I stand by that\u201D mean that he will guarantee to fund the recovery of their remains, or is that statement about as reliable as the one that stated he would not increase GST? \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000111\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002254023f70c1d24886bfa0c2004630d889\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: I will not dignify that comment on the very real commitment that all people have shown towards the recovery of those bodies. If the member wants to make a political circus out of it, that is up to him. Those bodies are still there. The Crown has taken every step it possibly can. The hurdle is the safety and stability of the mine\u2014not the receivers, not the new owners. There is no other obstacle but the safety and stability of the mine. If the efforts made by the police to try to secure the mine had been successful, of course we would be in there recovering those bodies. No one has yet, in my view, come up with a plan that goes anywhere near achieving the safety and stability that would be required to go 2\u00BD kilometres into the mountain, retrieve the bodies, and come 2\u00BD kilometres out, and do it all on foot, which would be the only viable way to do it. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000112\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022ab2a6c4094dd411eb72b6334d4a792f4\u0022\u003EEarthquake, Christchurch\u2014Replacement Toilets\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022ffff330f-1757-41d6-9973-25244f0fdada\u0022 data-id=\u0022fe7e1dda43fb41b3aed20b9a58a1b69d\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000113\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ffff330f-1757-41d6-9973-25244f0fdada\u0022\u003E8. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022fe7e1dda43fb41b3aed20b9a58a1b69d\u0022\u003ECOLIN KING (National\u2014Kaik\u014Dura)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of Civil Defence: Is the Government satisfied with the provision of replacement toilets for earthquake-affected Christchurch residents?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00226984d661-9f65-4ed6-b29c-3285b598582d\u0022 data-id=\u00220eb7f043622d45b885fc16dafdaeaa2e\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000114\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226984d661-9f65-4ed6-b29c-3285b598582d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00220eb7f043622d45b885fc16dafdaeaa2e\u0022\u003EHon JOHN CARTER (Minister of Civil Defence):\u003C/span\u003E The answer is yes; 88 percent of Christchurch City now has water, and it is expected that by the end of this weekend 95 to 96 percent of households will have water. As for the other 4 percent, because it is difficult to ascertain the situation, we are asking those people who do not have water by the end of the weekend to ring 941 8999 to tell the Christchurch City Council. We want those homes to get water on and the toilets to then be flushed so that we can ascertain whether the sewerage system is working. We ask them to check in their backyards and in their streets to see whether there are any difficulties, and if difficulties occur, we ask people to ring 941 8999 to tell the council. About 60 percent of homes, as we understand at the moment, have usable toilets. The problem we have is that there is so much siltation in the pipes that we need to carry on ascertaining the damage, and many of those pipes will have to be jet-blasted so that we can know what is there. In the meantime, 40,131 temporary toilets, both Portaloo toilets and chemical toilets, have been sourced. Some have yet to arrive, but civil defence is getting them into Christchurch and out to affected people as quickly as possible. We are using military personnel to deliver the temporary toilets. I can tell members that I was speaking with a controller just before I came down to the House, and the toilets are being checked regularly to make sure we are delivering them as widely as we can. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000115\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ffff330f-1757-41d6-9973-25244f0fdada\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228258186be00a415e9fd31654fa03ab93\u0022\u003EColin King\u003C/span\u003E: Is the Government concerned about the possible outbreak of disease, in the light of sanitary conditions and the need for neighbourhoods to share Portaloo toilets? \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000116\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226984d661-9f65-4ed6-b29c-3285b598582d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f6dd373a655b42a3b37c180a10517734\u0022\u003EHon JOHN CARTER\u003C/span\u003E: Yes, we are, of course. Communicable disease risks from gastroenteritis are being monitored, planned for, and managed. So far no unusual spikes have been seen. In media conferences and advisories, civil defence and Ministry of Health officials continue to remind residents to boil drinking water, regardless of where it comes from. They should also boil water that is being used to clean wounds. Advice includes reminders to wash hands or use hand sanitisers. Free hand sanitisers are available from water-tanker sites. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000117\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u00223e96254c098a43b993bebe2d2649c3bd\u0022\u003EWomen on Boards\u2014Self-assessment Tool\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00223facbb72-b3b0-464b-b24d-e6de0616f323\u0022 data-id=\u00225fce664222c44661b7bd33b0dc910cee\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000118\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223facbb72-b3b0-464b-b24d-e6de0616f323\u0022\u003E9. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00225fce664222c44661b7bd33b0dc910cee\u0022\u003ECAROL BEAUMONT (Labour)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of Women\u2019s Affairs: Can she outline a significant improvement for women initiated by the current Government?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022 data-id=\u00225f07a071962d46aaa41e1a2537720fcd\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000119\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00225f07a071962d46aaa41e1a2537720fcd\u0022\u003EHon HEKIA PARATA (Minister of Women\u2019s Affairs):\u003C/span\u003E T\u0113n\u0101 koe, Mr Speaker. Bringing about real and sustainable change in the long tradition of Aotearoa New Zealand is about the leadership of women themselves. This Government has recognised and respected that, by providing resources and tools to support women and to translate their interests, skills, and ambitions into practical effect through the development of the \u201Cmy board strengths\u201D initiative, the Women on Boards\u2019 self-assessment tool, to be officially launched next week. The toolkit supports women\u2019s own abilities to make smart decisions about developing their governance skills, with a view to lifting women\u2019s representation in governance in the public and private sectors. \u201CMy board strengths\u201D forms part of the new and improved Women on Boards website.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000120\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223facbb72-b3b0-464b-b24d-e6de0616f323\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022327c025fa7024ade9b4671b8da48ce24\u0022\u003ECarol Beaumont\u003C/span\u003E: Why were most of the achievements recently outlined by the Government in the report on progress on the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women initiatives of the previous Labour Government, while the negative changes from National were left out?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000121\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022af2c1974799b4e459c9874e3cc0c1663\u0022\u003EHon HEKIA PARATA\u003C/span\u003E: The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women report was the fifth report over the last 50 years. I think it is somewhat arrogant to suggest that all of the changes somehow occurred in one administration. As I said in my previous\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000122\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223facbb72-b3b0-464b-b24d-e6de0616f323\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002278b1b23ddc95483286c817967a245d22\u0022\u003ECarol Beaumont\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. The question was specifically referring to the last report, not all five reports.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000123\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ac169d29-4849-42c2-a4a7-f344fd416503\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002296e94e238184418e9eff6c128890594b\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: I think the member is being a little hasty in raising a point of order. My greater concern was that a question was asked and an answer was being given, and the noise was pretty excessive. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000124\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002259a60dd49b0e400480a9498be0ab712a\u0022\u003EHon Annette King\u003C/span\u003E: Because it was political.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000125\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ac169d29-4849-42c2-a4a7-f344fd416503\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00225ec749ff94cb47fd986990a02fc3ad27\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Well, to suggest the question was not political, I think is stretching it a bit. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000126\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ad0ac268ff0444c883d900dfbcf919f0\u0022\u003EHon HEKIA PARATA\u003C/span\u003E: As I said in my response to the primary question, Aotearoa New Zealand has a long tradition of New Zealand women themselves taking responsibility, taking leadership, for the decisions about the lives they lead. The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women report captures some parts of that journey\u2014the parts that the Government contributes to\u2014but there is a whole wide world that women themselves are in charge of, and that is what this Government is committed to supporting.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000127\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223facbb72-b3b0-464b-b24d-e6de0616f323\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002234bbc76a24304941a7ff6f459f3941d1\u0022\u003ECarol Beaumont\u003C/span\u003E: What is the Ministry of Women\u2019s Affairs saying or doing about the changes to the Employment Relations Act that will enable the dismissal of workers without reason or recourse from 1 April, and that will disproportionately impact on women?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000128\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d62c040899584f88b1a425a6db32e753\u0022\u003EHon HEKIA PARATA\u003C/span\u003E: The Government has taken a widespread approach to the way in which we can engage women across the entire economy. That means we are looking for opportunities for them to be given chances to be taken on into employment areas where they might not otherwise be taken on. That means we have seen that the occupational segregation that has forced women into lower-paid opportunities must be addressed. That means we have focused on the pay disparity gap that that side of the House has generally focused on. We have seen that gap, for instance, moving in the right direction, and falling from 13 percent in 2008 to 11.3 percent in 2009, and to 10.6 percent in 2010, an indicator only\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000129\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ac169d29-4849-42c2-a4a7-f344fd416503\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002209d1b02020234160bf7bb8440fb6ecbe\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: I accept that the question contained a couple of statements that were certainly capable of being disputed. But it did not actually invite a prolonged speech. I think the answer has been quite long enough. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000130\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223facbb72-b3b0-464b-b24d-e6de0616f323\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a426032afe614b78ad34f3cfbb8d07f0\u0022\u003ECarol Beaumont\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. I think the question was quite specific in referring to the changes to the Employment Relations Act\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000131\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ac169d29-4849-42c2-a4a7-f344fd416503\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00225edd69dc4a61443294665af0c32389d9\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: No, no\u2014the member will resume her seat now. I am not going even to invite her to repeat her question, because in it she made a couple of assertions that were completely capable of being commented on by the Minister. The Minister chose to respond to the latter part of the question, and if the member wants to have a question answered she should keep it short\u2014for instance, cutting out the last two parts of that last question. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000132\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223facbb72-b3b0-464b-b24d-e6de0616f323\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b6b6217959d4433bafef6d1fc8313a25\u0022\u003ECarol Beaumont\u003C/span\u003E: Does the Minister agree with her colleague Kate Wilkinson that New Zealand women who are underpaid and who are facing ever-rising prices and struggling to make ends meet should be \u201Cgrateful that there is a National Government that has a focus of lifting economic performance and ensuring the well-being of families and communities.\u201D?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000133\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b349fe248a0a4fa0a817385479848f1d\u0022\u003EHon HEKIA PARATA\u003C/span\u003E: As I have already said, this Government is committed to raising opportunities for all women to participate in the economy, and in ways where their work and their potential is properly rewarded and valued.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000134\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220ee528dc-7870-4553-95ed-5ec0cab60f07\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022749b257fe0f343128a960717799d42f7\u0022\u003ECatherine Delahunty\u003C/span\u003E: T\u0113n\u0101 koe, Mr Speaker. Despite the generic figures she has mentioned, does she agree that we do not have enough information on the gender pay gap to know whether the problem is one of equal pay, or pay equity, or both; and how can we close that gap if we do not report robustly on these problems?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000135\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d95619219135488fb4e91ffd68ece887\u0022\u003EHon HEKIA PARATA\u003C/span\u003E: The gender pay gap as it is discussed in New Zealand at the moment is one indicator only. It compares the average of women\u2019s and men\u2019s work across the entire economy, so it does not take into account texture of qualification, places of work, length of service, and so on and so forth. So, yes, there needs to be more work on a wider range of issues so that we can address the causes of that gap.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000136\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u00229d0a112eb4da4570a0ad27764d4d0360\u0022\u003EEarthquake, Christchurch\u2014Continuity of Early Childhood Education and Schooling\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022749d97b8-a772-4227-83da-b5e264c37bc0\u0022 data-id=\u0022ac78b34f1c5949df9be0d147e8327ee6\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000137\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022749d97b8-a772-4227-83da-b5e264c37bc0\u0022\u003E10. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022ac78b34f1c5949df9be0d147e8327ee6\u0022\u003EALLAN PEACHEY (National\u2014T\u0101maki)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of Education: What provisions have been made to ensure continuity of early childhood education and schooling in the Christchurch region since the 22 February earthquake?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022 data-id=\u002292104a999f844ae98b64d4d3ca319f86\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000138\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002292104a999f844ae98b64d4d3ca319f86\u0022\u003EHon ANNE TOLLEY (Minister of Education):\u003C/span\u003E I am pleased to inform the House that, as of this morning, 80 schools and 165 early childhood education centres have opened. In addition, at least another 30 schools and 45 early childhood centres have said that they are planning to open either tomorrow or on Monday. This means that by the beginning of next week approximately 40,000 students will be back at school and continuing their education. Around the country a number of Christchurch children have enrolled in other schools. To give schools certainty we are effectively double-funding these students by funding them in their new school and in their original Christchurch school. This and other measures are expected to cost around $20 million.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000139\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022749d97b8-a772-4227-83da-b5e264c37bc0\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022645b4855a618403f9aaf227a41899471\u0022\u003EAllan Peachey\u003C/span\u003E: What provision has been made for the students of those schools that are so severely damaged that they will not be able to open this term?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000140\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00222023b9b11c894f52a0a87114a71b6a66\u0022\u003EHon ANNE TOLLEY\u003C/span\u003E: Schools in Christchurch are being extremely flexible and are looking at very innovative solutions to ensure continuity of schooling. In some cases we are looking to share school sites. For example, next week Shirley Boys High School will share the Papanui High School site, with Papanui High School using the classrooms in the morning, and Shirley Boys High School using them in the afternoon. In other cases we are putting relocatable classrooms on to school playgrounds. Where schools can open but do have severe infrastructure issues, we are working on a number of solutions. For example, the Defence Force is working to develop temporary sewerage systems, and we are bringing water on to school sites. The Farmy Army has also helped to clear the results of liquefaction at 10 school sites.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000141\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022749d97b8-a772-4227-83da-b5e264c37bc0\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228874b5bd39274eb9b9aa092f2d642c5e\u0022\u003EAllan Peachey\u003C/span\u003E: What reports has she had of the initial response to the earthquake in schools?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000142\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002247381a5209a247119843c7762036ce96\u0022\u003EHon ANNE TOLLEY\u003C/span\u003E: I am very pleased to say that the schools had worked on their earthquake drills, and the children were very well rehearsed. We have had no reports of serious injury on school-grounds. I take this opportunity to thank principals, teachers, and other school staff for their support for pupils. I have had reports that teachers stayed on-site with children until well into the early evening, waiting for their parents to come and collect them. Those teachers and principals had problems in their own homes and with their own families, but they did not leave before they had made sure that every single child was accounted for and safely with their family.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000143\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002283959ee5edae4bc7bbf6812c53b20355\u0022\u003ETe Ururoa Flavell\u003C/span\u003E: T\u0113n\u0101 koe, Mr Speaker. Kia ora t\u0101tou. Will any extra resources be made available to schools outside of Christchurch, such as Te Kura Kaupapa M\u0101ori Hoani Waititi in Auckland, Te Kura M\u0101ori o Porirua, or Te Kura Kaupapa M\u0101ori o Ruamat\u0101, which have had a quite big influx of students because of the earthquake?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000144\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022bdfb242f56bc4d0896911820a02abd56\u0022\u003EHon ANNE TOLLEY\u003C/span\u003E: Yes. I should acknowledge the fact that many kura and, in fact, many other schools throughout New Zealand have done a fantastic job of welcoming Christchurch students into their schools and making provision not only for them but also for their families. We are double-funding; we are paying those kura and schools for those students, even though they are still enrolled in schools back in Christchurch schools that are being paid for them. We are dealing as we can with those schools that need extra resources to cope with those students, on a case by case basis. But we are asking schools to try to share the students amongst the network, so that we do not put pressure on our property; of course, all the temporary property is being directed down to Christchurch.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000145\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u00227c6b42e6433145f4a15552927777b44a\u0022\u003EMediaWorks\u2014Advice on Perceived Conflict of Interest \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022 data-id=\u0022ea88e7c945b74e80b4ad289bb34fc81a\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000146\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E11. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022ea88e7c945b74e80b4ad289bb34fc81a\u0022\u003EHon TREVOR MALLARD (Labour\u2014Hutt South)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister for Communications and Information Technology: What advice did he receive on any perceived conflict of interest before he took part in the Cabinet decision that led to the deferral of the requirement for MediaWorks to pay its frequency licence to the Crown?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022 data-id=\u00227ae03a68b3d749bb9d1116107495608c\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000147\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00227ae03a68b3d749bb9d1116107495608c\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE (Minister for Communications and Information Technology):\u003C/span\u003E I sought Cabinet Office advice on whether I faced a potential conflict of interest as a result of my previous association with the radio industry. That advice confirmed that I did not face a conflict in relation to this matter. Nevertheless, I made sure that my Cabinet colleagues were aware of my previous association, and this was noted.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000148\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022601012be9910498783b26f77f6be48c8\u0022\u003EHon Trevor Mallard\u003C/span\u003E: Why did Gerry Brownlee lead negotiations with broadcasters around this package?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000149\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a708a16cca574a848646fc76f3d05ea6\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: I have no idea what the member is referring to. The decision was made by Cabinet, and the paper went forward under my name.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000150\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00223c7c7d2996b548c1b231cc37ae264d41\u0022\u003EHon Trevor Mallard\u003C/span\u003E: Why was it that Gerry Brownlee and his office had a series of discussions with the broadcasters before that Minister was involved; was that informal, or had he recused himself?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000151\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00227cdbc752df7a4b1d82292f48435dcd44\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: The approach that I received was from the Radio Broadcasters Association, and that is the approach that the Government responded to. I am aware that a number of broadcasters at different times approached other Ministers about their concerns, but it was formally dealt with by me through the association. It was taken to Cabinet, and all of Cabinet discussed and agreed on the outcome.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000152\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022dc3c1eea01be4856be5ac962d1e6c20b\u0022\u003EHon Trevor Mallard\u003C/span\u003E: Was 2degrees offered a similar arrangement for its spectrum; if not, why not?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000153\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022708397ad621e439e8942e9d02038b90a\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: No, and that is because the approach was made by the Radio Broadcasters Association and 2degrees is, of course, not a member of the association because it is a cellphone company. But the important thing was that Cabinet was asked to consider whether, because the frequencies were due to be paid right at the point of the worst recession since the Depression back in the 1930s, the association could make a delayed payment option available, and after discussion it was decided to do so. I should note that this has actually been in the public domain for the last 18 months. If the member has concerns about other things he might have missed, there is a website called www.beehive.govt.nz, which he might like to refer to and where he could search for other press releases that he missed at the time.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000154\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d702fc0f64c0441c8222e8d0f67d9015\u0022\u003EHon Trevor Mallard\u003C/span\u003E: Is the 11 percent interest rate available to small Kiwi information and communications technology entrepreneurs who owe the Government money, or only to foreign-owned media companies with which he has a long-term relationship?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000155\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224a304de94ab3440ea4b4cda467df695a\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: The point I need to make to the member again is that the rate was available to all those radio frequency holders who were due to renew at that time. His comment about associations is interesting. I think the member is trying to suggest that if somebody was involved with an industry at some point in their past career, they should not be able to be the Minister in relation to that industry. This is an intriguing position, given that as a former teacher he was the Minister of Education afterwards and Annette King, a former dental nurse, turned out to be the former Minister of Health.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000156\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ac169d29-4849-42c2-a4a7-f344fd416503\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ddc1875d416a4ed9b9e1e14d096aa91e\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: We do not get into that kind of personal direction in answering a question. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000157\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224c41d9d2c13e4429ba5bee6248659147\u0022\u003EHon Steven Joyce\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. I think we have got into that sort of personal situation. I was responding in kind.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000158\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ac169d29-4849-42c2-a4a7-f344fd416503\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022cff2769cf8e94eb6b74658808f82125b\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: That is not a point of order, and the Minister should know that. Members of this House are perfectly at liberty to ask members about perceived or potential conflicts of interest, and Ministers are responsible for answering to this House where there may be any such perception. I will be watching very carefully to make sure that the member does not question the Minister about his personal affairs.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000159\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c8b9453cbc434254a055b8c9959c6f10\u0022\u003EHon Trevor Mallard\u003C/span\u003E: Was he cognisant of the pending staffing cuts to TVNZ 7 when he approved this deferral for the foreign-owned company?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000160\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228a4c4b7a193f4cff9ac10540dc588ed0\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: I reject the assertion in the question. It was offered to all frequency holders who were due to make payments at that time\u2014a deferred payment that involved them paying interest and making their payments over a period of time.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000161\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022015a630bc6ce466a971e7b0c2563ed81\u0022\u003EHon Trevor Mallard\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. It was a straightforward question, which asked whether he was cognisant of the pending cuts to TVNZ 7 when he approved this deferral to a foreign-owned company. That was not addressed. Was he cognisant of\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000162\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022803002d1-e810-4bd8-b8e7-2e97d0d6f626\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f87ccccb5a8a4222a627fefd0a0204ec\u0022\u003EHon Simon Power\u003C/span\u003E: He said he rejected the assertion.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000163\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002281994ddcdffa4f90a27a78b8e1e59e17\u0022\u003EHon Trevor Mallard\u003C/span\u003E: Rejected which assertion?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000164\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ac169d29-4849-42c2-a4a7-f344fd416503\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022dafc212aabbe4ed790e332103c36e6bf\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: The Acting Leader of the House should know that he does not interject during a point of order, because that is when we get into a messy situation. The Minister, in answering the question, in my view answered it by pointing out that all broadcasters, as I understand it from his answer, had access to deferral arrangements. His answer, I think, implied there was no favouritism to any one company over any other, and I believe he therefore answered the significant part of the question. The member has a further supplementary question in which to pursue the matter further, if he wishes.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000165\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b1b86f03c6d049f49e505cbb7d13947c\u0022\u003EHon Member\u003C/span\u003E: Didn\u2019t you understand English, Trevor?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000166\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022edb73cf6e7454ad5880d39f6f0289e21\u0022\u003EHon Trevor Mallard\u003C/span\u003E: The intellectuals speak\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000167\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ac169d29-4849-42c2-a4a7-f344fd416503\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022de64ae3ba1794e22bb62dcf01a4a87d6\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: We will not have this. Members can see that when they interject like that, they are likely to cause disorder.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000168\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ab7f7521b4ee4aabb7d881f2555caca3\u0022\u003EHon Trevor Mallard\u003C/span\u003E: Was he cognisant of the pending funding and staffing cuts to TVNZ 7 when he approved this process of deferral?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000169\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022712a29b4e05c478ea8271092f9ae4f84\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: The decision was made in 2009, I point out to the member, and it was announced in 2009, which was the point I was trying to address. The member would have to address any changes to the broadcasting portfolio to the Minister of Broadcasting.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000170\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022a65bb7d76678413ca0b0cf57f562ea7f\u0022\u003EEarthquake, Christchurch\u2014Search and Rescue Progress\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00226dc89bbf-c2ef-45c9-89e4-d2b5952d8d16\u0022 data-id=\u002236a042442fe34b3ba5eb53f146900dbc\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000171\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226dc89bbf-c2ef-45c9-89e4-d2b5952d8d16\u0022\u003E12. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002236a042442fe34b3ba5eb53f146900dbc\u0022\u003EKANWALJIT SINGH BAKSHI (National)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of Internal Affairs: What reports has he received on the progress of urban search and rescue and firefighter teams working in Christchurch following the 22 February earthquake?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022 data-id=\u00220c9a0a58f9a54d558053693181560ea3\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000172\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00220c9a0a58f9a54d558053693181560ea3\u0022\u003EHon NATHAN GUY (Minister of Internal Affairs):\u003C/span\u003E I have received daily reports and updates since the earthquake. The New Zealand Fire Service attended 3,919 incidents between 22 February and 7 March. This figure includes 155 rescues and just under 2,000 property-related incidents. Currently five urban search and rescue task forces are deployed from New Zealand and overseas, which include 295 highly trained personnel. More than 500 buildings have now been cleared and the focus is moving from large buildings in the centre to smaller structures further out.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000173\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226dc89bbf-c2ef-45c9-89e4-d2b5952d8d16\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c55cc89513644e14a121a52d990e79db\u0022\u003EKanwaljit Singh Bakshi\u003C/span\u003E: Has the Minister received any report about an increased number of volunteers wanting to join the Fire Service since the Christchurch earthquake?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000174\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ec9d957a82ba420dbd3b3bcb96d34322\u0022\u003EHon NATHAN GUY\u003C/span\u003E: Yes, I have received some very positive reports of New Zealanders wanting to help out by becoming firefighters. I am told that the number of website inquiries to the Fire Service has tripled since the earthquake, and that applications have increased from an average of five a day to more than 15 a day since the earthquake. This is very encouraging news because the Fire Service relies heavily on both volunteer and professional firefighters to help New Zealanders in times of need.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022\u003EBills\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000175\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022a4ddb932aae347f7bace99efacaf1dda\u0022\u003ECanterbury Earthquake Commemoration Day Bill\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000176\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubproceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u002233d5db39af3c49f78a6456ae38bd6e8d\u0022\u003EProcedure\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022803002d1-e810-4bd8-b8e7-2e97d0d6f626\u0022 data-id=\u0022ce25b87e2869418299f338bb7bba057e\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000177\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022803002d1-e810-4bd8-b8e7-2e97d0d6f626\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022ce25b87e2869418299f338bb7bba057e\u0022\u003EHon SIMON POWER (Acting Leader of the House):\u003C/span\u003E I seek leave for the introduction and passing of the Canterbury Earthquake Commemoration Day Bill prior to 6 p.m. today.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000178\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ac169d29-4849-42c2-a4a7-f344fd416503\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00226943a7df7031416b83c00489b9bd664a\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Leave is sought. Is there any objection to that course of action being followed? There is none.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000179\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubproceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u002245aa7107abd24c2ba941773263eb5222\u0022\u003EFirst Reading\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022136da8c4-afc7-483e-a39c-c66812f71774\u0022 data-id=\u002269b1b04534fb4deba832c3c83e67c228\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000180\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022136da8c4-afc7-483e-a39c-c66812f71774\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002269b1b04534fb4deba832c3c83e67c228\u0022\u003EHon KATE WILKINSON (Minister of Labour):\u003C/span\u003E I move, That the Canterbury Earthquake Commemoration Day Bill be now read a first time. I thank the House for supporting the passage of this bill through all its stages today.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000181\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022136da8c4-afc7-483e-a39c-c66812f71774\u0022\u003EThe bill provides for 18 March 2011 to be a day of commemoration in those parts of Canterbury\u2014that is, in northern and central Canterbury\u2014that observe Christchurch Show Day as Canterbury Anniversary Day, in order to commemorate the devastating consequences of the Canterbury earthquake on 22 February 2011 at 12.51 p.m. Just over 2 weeks have passed since Christchurch was shattered by its second major earthquake. This bill has been introduced to allow for the people of Canterbury to take a day to come together as a community, and as a region, to grieve together and mark an event that has so deeply affected each and every one of us. We are still in the response stage of the earthquake. There is an enormous amount of work left to do, and that will be ongoing for years, but next Friday we want to take the time to provide an opportunity for all of Canterbury to mourn. It will also be a chance to celebrate the lives of those who have been lost. There is no denying that the wounds are still open for everyone to see. Next Friday\u2019s memorial service will not bring an end to the grieving process, but I hope it will help Canterbury at the beginning of this long road ahead.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000182\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022136da8c4-afc7-483e-a39c-c66812f71774\u0022\u003EThis bill provides for next Friday to be observed as a public holiday known as Canterbury Earthquake Commemoration Day. Canterbury Earthquake Commemoration Day is to be treated, in those part of Canterbury that observe Christchurch Show Day as Canterbury Anniversary Day, as a one-off public holiday for the purposes of the Holidays Act 2003, and as a day to which section 65C(1) of the Education Act 1989 applies, which requires schools to be closed.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000183\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022136da8c4-afc7-483e-a39c-c66812f71774\u0022\u003EThe provisions of the Holidays Act 2003 governing observance and payment for public holidays will apply to Canterbury Earthquake Commemoration Day as follows: employees are entitled to be paid if Canterbury Earthquake Commemoration Day, 18 March 2011, would have been a normal working day for them. If employees do not work on Canterbury Earthquake Commemoration Day, they are entitled to be paid what they would have earned had they worked on the day; if employees work on the day, they should be paid at least time and a half for the time they actually work on that day. They are also entitled to an alternative holiday if the day would have been a normal working day for them.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000184\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022136da8c4-afc7-483e-a39c-c66812f71774\u0022\u003EI am aware that this will place some unexpected costs on some businesses in the region, and of course this was taken into consideration when the Government discussed creating a one-off public holiday for the region. However, there was no getting away from the fact that this earthquake is the greatest tragedy ever to strike the Canterbury region. Most people in Canterbury will want to attend the memorial service, but without a public holiday it would be much more difficult for many of them to do so. It is important that all of Canterbury is able to take a day to mark this tragedy, and we hope that businesses in the region will support this public holiday. Many businesses are not able to operate right now, and the Government is providing support to them and to thousands of employees. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000185\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022136da8c4-afc7-483e-a39c-c66812f71774\u0022\u003EThe welfare of the people of Canterbury is what matters most at this time. I expect that tens of thousands of people will want to attend the memorial service, and I encourage everyone who can get to Hagley Park to do so. The Government considers that to mark a very significant event, it is appropriate to have a public holiday for the people of northern and central Canterbury. I commend this bill to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022 data-id=\u002258a1d21521f740d084d617d589055164\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000186\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002258a1d21521f740d084d617d589055164\u0022\u003EHon ANNETTE KING (Deputy Leader\u2014Labour):\u003C/span\u003E The Labour Opposition will be supporting the Canterbury Earthquake Commemoration Day Bill. We are determined to work alongside the Government and the community to make sure that Christchurch is a better place for everybody, including our children. One way we can do that is to ensure that this day of commemoration is able to take place. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000187\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003EI am one of those who have been to Christchurch over the last 2 weeks, on two occasions, and I have seen firsthand the devastation and the impact on the lives of so many people; not only people who live in Canterbury but also family and friends right around New Zealand. I do not think I have ever seen such devastation in one of our cities or towns in New Zealand. We have had many disasters over many years, but I do not think I have seen, in my lifetime, such devastation. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000188\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003EYesterday I went to Lyttelton, and unless one has been there one will not believe that almost that entire town has fallen down. It will take a lot of hard work to rebuild it, as it will in many parts of the city of Christchurch. As we have said on a number of occasions over the last 2 weeks, we feel for the people of Canterbury and we want to be part of the rebuild of that area as fast as we can. We want to ensure that they have the opportunity to work, live, and play in a most wonderful part of New Zealand. As a former South Islander who trained there as a school dental nurse, I have a lot of affection for that city. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000189\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003EWe believe it is appropriate to set aside a day for the people of Christchurch to mourn for the staggering loss of life. I would, however, have to say that it would feel better if we knew the names of all those who had passed away; if we knew whom we were commemorating. There is a feeling of emptiness that there are only so many who at this stage are identified as having passed away. I understand the terrible work that has to be done in identification, and I say to the Minister of Police that the work the police have been doing is absolutely amazing. They will do it thoroughly, and they will ensure people know that the remains returned to them are those of their loved ones. I understand that, but I feel that a commemoration should really be about commemorating those who have lost their lives, and we will be in a situation where this day is held but we will not know whom they all are. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000190\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003EIt makes one wonder whether at some stage there needs to be some other commemoration. Perhaps a year after this event, when we have been able to identify everybody and when people\u2019s minds have been put at rest, we will be able to commemorate this terrible disaster together as a country. We also believe that by having a day to commemorate, people will be able to stop and reflect on what they would like to see happen in their own region and their own city. That is important. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000191\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003EOne of the things that was said to me over and over again when I was in Canterbury is that Cantabrians must have a say in what happens to their city. They must have a say in how it is developed, designed, and built. I think that is a strong message we must all take on board when we think of the people of Christchurch. If we think about it as if it were our own back yard, it would be wrong and we would feel aggrieved if somebody said to us: \u201CThis is how you are going to have your own domain, and we\u2019re going to make the decision for you.\u201D So I think there is a clear message to us. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000192\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003EThose of us who would like to see a rebuild happen quickly should stop, take a breath, and think about how we can ensure that there will be a rebuild of that city that has the buy-in of many, many of those people. We know that the economic cost to us as a country, along with the social cost, is huge if we do not get the rebuild of that city right. So when we commemorate and when people are thinking about it, I urge us to consider the views of Cantabrians and what they would like to see happen. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000193\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003EThere is no need for us to panic in terms of the re-establishment of the city. We, with the people of Canterbury, have an opportunity to ensure we build a city of the 21st century, the like of which we do not have in this country. We will look back in 100 years\u2019 time and say that out of that devastation and rubble has grown a city that is providing economic and social sustenance to many, many people over many generations. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000194\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003ELabour members support this bill, and we will ensure we are represented at that memorial service. I know that the Leader of the Opposition, alongside the Prime Minister, will be speaking on that day, making it a parliamentary occasion. I think that is important, because it is not a Government occasion. We have been talking across this House about how we stand together. It is important, I think, that the commemoration service represents political parties across the political divide, so people can see we are together in commemorating with them the loss of so many lives. We stand here to support this bill and commend it to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002285ec30d4-6394-433a-a12e-2c4def705dd0\u0022 data-id=\u002225e4c0cea3e94facb9babbc81b4404dd\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000195\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002285ec30d4-6394-433a-a12e-2c4def705dd0\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002225e4c0cea3e94facb9babbc81b4404dd\u0022\u003EHon JUDITH COLLINS (Minister of Police):\u003C/span\u003E It is truly humbling to speak on the Canterbury Earthquake Commemoration Day Bill. I have just returned from Christchurch for the third time since the earthquake of 22 February. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000196\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002285ec30d4-6394-433a-a12e-2c4def705dd0\u0022\u003EI will just take a moment to deal with an issue raised by the member who has just resumed her seat, the Hon Annette King, in relation to the memorial day and the fact that it is a shame we do not yet have all the names released of those who have lost their lives. I am fully aware that we may never have all the names of those who have lost their lives, such has been the devastation that has been wreaked on some individuals. As that member has acknowledged, the police are doing their very best to get absolute accuracy in relation to the remains of those deceased, so that they are returned to the correct families. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000197\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002285ec30d4-6394-433a-a12e-2c4def705dd0\u0022\u003EWe should not underestimate the dreadful job the disaster victim identification teams\u2014DVI teams\u2014have had to endure. I visited them at their work. I can say only that it is quite clearly the Lord\u2019s work, because I am not sure that too many other people would do it. They do the most amazing job. When the bushfires in Victoria went through and killed over 200 people, it took over 6 weeks before any victims could be returned to their families. Our team was returning them after a few days. It is a stunning effort from some fantastic people. I take this opportunity to thank all of the people who have been part of that team\u2014all of the people from around the world and from around New Zealand who have been part of it. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000198\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002285ec30d4-6394-433a-a12e-2c4def705dd0\u0022\u003EThis memorial day is about those who have died, but it is also about the many survivors in Canterbury who have to live with the fact that they have lost loved ones or friends, and about those who have had their businesses and everything else destroyed around them. All they have left is their own lives. When we look for anything positive we can take from that terrible day of 22 February, it would have to be the absolute value of human life. Those who are still alive, even those who have lost limbs, have had their backs or necks broken, and have the most dreadful injuries, still have life. They cling to life and they wish to live it as fully as they can. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000199\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002285ec30d4-6394-433a-a12e-2c4def705dd0\u0022\u003EI know there will also be people who think this service will make things harder for many businesses, because it is another paid day off. But I say that we should think about those people who have continued to go to work through all of this. Think about our police, our corrections officers, our nurses, our doctors, and our council workers, who have been collecting the rubbish off the streets to try to do what they can. Think about the people who have been trying to reconnect sewers. Think about the people who have been doing all the plumbing and the electricians\u2014the people who have been working all the way through. This is a day that we owe to Canterbury. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000200\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002285ec30d4-6394-433a-a12e-2c4def705dd0\u0022\u003EI recently read a comment in an Australian magazine about this quake. It said, for all Australians, today they are Kiwis. I say to this House, for all New Zealanders, today we are Cantabrians.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022 data-id=\u00227e39394ca0e840fd885a32b14002760d\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000201\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00227e39394ca0e840fd885a32b14002760d\u0022\u003EHon TREVOR MALLARD (Labour\u2014Hutt South):\u003C/span\u003E I want to join with members in the tone of this discussion. I was not going to start this way, but I will acknowledge the work of the police and the teams they have developed. It must be pushing 15 years since I spent a number of nights out with the police in my city. On one of those early occasions I was with a team that was involved in cleaning up after a road accident where someone had hit a power pole and the remains were spread over 50 to 70 metres down a road. The police officers were using tweezers to pick up body parts. The police and others in Christchurch\u2014our other heroes\u2014are doing that on a scale 200 times bigger, and that is an enormous effort. It is almost like under every boulder, brick, and stone they lift there is a possibility of finding part of a loved one. It must be so hard, yet in a way I am sure for many of them it is rewarding. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000202\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003EI have had discussions with people from my area who have been involved in the work, just as there are people in Christchurch from every area in New Zealand. Police from my area have been in Christchurch and have come back. In a funny way it must also be enormously rewarding work to be part of a team that is now doing the best that can be done in returning as much of the remains of the loved ones to the families as they can for appropriate burial or other disposal. It is hard work, and we thank them for it.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000203\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003EPerhaps a related question is that of whether there can be some informal arrangement or direction from the commissioner that the police and others who have already worked in Canterbury and who are now back home can be taken off active duty at least for the period of the memorial service, so that they can be part of the commemoration. I think that would be a good thing, and it should probably apply to the fire service and other personnel as well.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000204\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003EI say to the Minister of Labour\u2014again, I think it will be a matter of the discretion of individual employers\u2014that there are now tens of thousands of Cantabrians who are outside Canterbury. Many of them are working for nationwide employers or are outside their normal place of work in the Canterbury province. I wonder whether the Minister\u2014and she might like to report at a later stage\u2014could encourage employers to treat those Cantabrians who are now outside Canterbury as if they were in Canterbury for the purposes of the commemoration. Because of the television aspect to the commemoration, I think a lot of us will want to feel a part of it, and it would be good for those who were in Christchurch or who would normally be there to be allowed to be part of it. I think gentle encouragement could be given for that to occur. I do not think we need an amendment to the legislation, but if we can get some leadership from the Government on arrangements for the police and paid firefighters at least, then that would be a good way of progressing.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000205\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003EAs well as acknowledging those people, an enormous number of public servants in Wellington as well as in Canterbury have been burning the candle at both ends in order to best respond to this terrible event. We need to acknowledge them and thank them. In fact, I tell the Minister of Police that the police with whom I have had a discussion have had some arrangement where they have been down in Christchurch for a week. I think they went down on the ferry late in the afternoon of the earthquake and stayed there for a week. There was not one occasion when they had their normal 9-hour break between shifts. They were always working for at least 16 hours a day, and often longer. There will be some issues that flow from that.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000206\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003EBefore I get back to that point, I acknowledge Anne Tolley and the work she and her team have done. Through informal links\u2014and occasionally some tears on Lambton Quay\u2014I have caught up with what has been going on within the Ministry of Education and its team. I acknowledge her leadership and the work that Karen Sewell and those people have done in order to make the best possible arrangements at this stage. It is an enormous job. It could have gone much worse. There will be enormous challenges to come, and I am sure that at the appropriate time we will give Anne Tolley some hurry-up to make sure the good work continues. She has taken some leadership there, and part of it has involved some additional funding, some double funding, in order to make sure that arrangements are appropriately in place for schools.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000207\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003EI want to go back to the Minister of Police and ask that she too looks at the effect on police district budgets as a result of the earthquake work arrangements. Because of briefings on the Rugby World Cup, I know that this year will be enormously tight for the police. As far as leave is concerned, there are large blocks of time when the police will not be able to take leave, and therefore there will be an accumulation of leave. I understand that the Minister of Police has already approved the paying out of time in lieu for police who have been in Christchurch where that is appropriate. I say to the Minister of Police that I think we should not pressure some of the police who have been in that situation to take payment of time in lieu unless they choose to. As a result of working for a week, some of them have effectively accrued about 3 weeks\u2019 leave. If some of that is paid out, that is good. But I just want to make sure that the funding arrangements are in place in the same way that the Minister of Education has arranged it for schools, so that policing is not reduced as a result of the exercise. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000208\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003EI know it is a matter that will take some working through and it is not as urgent as it is in respect of education, but it is a very real question. Having been involved in some negotiations in the past as the Associate Minister of Finance\u2014if I take off my shoes and do some counting on my fingers\u2014I think about a week\u2019s policing from the Hutt was the loss of an officer for about 6 months. That gets to be quite a serious drop in a relatively small community, so we need to work though it.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000209\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003EI will finish on what might be a slightly discordant note and say, as our leader and deputy leader have indicated, that because the Government has made this decision, and because of our determination to stand beside the Government in these matters, we will be supportive of it. I just want to toss in my personal view now, which is that it might have been better to wait a little while until we had an understanding of who died, or at least as good an understanding as we will ever get. I know of a relatively close friend and acquaintance who has died, but whose name has not been released. I do not know whether others are on that list. I think that all of New Zealand is thinking about that at the moment. At Pike River we knew who the 29 were. But we do not know in this case, and my view is that it might have been better to leave it a bit longer until we do. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000210\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003EBut what is clear out of all of this is that at some stage in the future we have to work out what a proper memorial is. I want to think in grander ways than the physical for that sort of memorial. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022b8383f38-c78c-4e5d-8324-677d91e95c49\u0022 data-id=\u00223e7c7268ef9a4b098c07b8981585cad9\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000211\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b8383f38-c78c-4e5d-8324-677d91e95c49\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00223e7c7268ef9a4b098c07b8981585cad9\u0022\u003EKEITH LOCKE (Green):\u003C/span\u003E The Green Party will be fully supporting the Canterbury Earthquake Commemoration Day Bill. Since the horrific 22 February earthquake New Zealand has been mourning those who tragically were killed in that earthquake, and our hearts are very much with their families at this very difficult time. In a myriad of ways, New Zealanders have been extending their support to those who survived and those whose lives have been very badly affected. This support takes many different forms, more than I think I have seen in New Zealand in as long as I can remember. It includes everything, from the official response by civil defence\u2014and I see that John Carter is with us today, and civil defence has done a tremendous job\u2014right through to the very grassroots things such as people having a little sausage sizzle in their street in suburban Auckland and sending the money as their contribution to those who have suffered. We particularly feel for those at the front line, the medics and search and rescue people who are uncovering such horrible sights that none of us would ever want to experience. I pay tribute to people from all levels of society, on behalf of the Green Party, for the wonderful response across New Zealand. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000212\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b8383f38-c78c-4e5d-8324-677d91e95c49\u0022\u003EIt is appropriate that we have a more formal opportunity as a nation to mourn what has happened and those who have died, and the ceremony on 18 March will provide that, but I must admit that when I first heard the Prime Minister\u2019s announcement of the date, my instinctual reaction was that it was too soon. Many of the bodies of the victims have not yet been identified and returned to their families. As of today, only 65 of the 166 bodies have been identified, and the families of most of the deceased have not had the opportunity to properly grieve with their loved ones. However, I think this memorial service will help those families, including the families of the overseas citizens who died, mainly in the CTV building. They will all get to see that the whole of the New Zealand community is behind them and with them in their grief. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000213\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b8383f38-c78c-4e5d-8324-677d91e95c49\u0022\u003EI hope that the ceremony, to be held a week tomorrow, is more down-to-earth than many of the ceremonies that we as parliamentarians are involved in. An image in my mind is of a whole lot of dignitaries in suits, ties, and formal regalia, and that clashes with another image that is in my mind from the time I spent going door-to-door in the suburb of Aranui, of people who have not been able to wash their clothes for more than 2 weeks, whose toilet is a bucket, and who will find it quite difficult to travel over the cracked and bumpy roads to even get to the Hagley Park event. I certainly hope that they do get there. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000214\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b8383f38-c78c-4e5d-8324-677d91e95c49\u0022\u003EIt is unfortunate that having a public ceremony so soon and declaring a public holiday has provoked quite a bit of angst and controversy amongst the good citizens of Christchurch, which can be seen in the blogs and in the comments on the TV3 website at the moment, for example. All the points made by people in Christchurch on those websites and blogs are relevant, even if they do clash a bit with each other. Some business owners who are already on their knees have complained about missing a day\u2019s work, or the cost to them of a paid holiday. Others have replied in the comments section in blogs that the additional cost to business should not override the importance of collectively remembering the tragedy and huge loss of life. Both sides have a point, and we should welcome such public discussion not only now but also in terms of the future of Christchurch. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000215\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b8383f38-c78c-4e5d-8324-677d91e95c49\u0022\u003EI think that whether it be on such matters as the memorial day, which heritage buildings to reconstruct, or whether to continue with the Rugby World Cup at AMI Stadium in Christchurch, we should be open to that discussion. It worried me a little bit to read today that reports on the state of AMI Stadium would be shared with the International Rugby Board before the people of Christchurch were told. It seems to me that there needs to be a good public discussion about whether the Rugby World Cup games should go ahead at that Christchurch stadium, weighing up all the pluses and minuses, and there are a lot on either side. I am worried that there might be a fait accompli announcement by the Government, the International Rugby Board, or the Rugby Union. I hope I am wrong about that, because although it is likely that there will be a reduction in the financial return if the games are held in Christchurch and there would certainly be many other difficulties with holding the games there, this needs to be balanced against whether the games would be an important morale boost for the people of Christchurch. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000216\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b8383f38-c78c-4e5d-8324-677d91e95c49\u0022\u003EAlthough this memorial service is dedicated to remembering those who died in the earthquake, it will inevitably be to some degree an opportunity to express our feelings towards all those in Christchurch who have suffered, and who are still suffering, as a result of the earthquake. Just about everyone living in the eastern half of Christchurch has suffered some degree of trauma, and their nightmare has not ended. Nerves are frayed from not knowing just how big the next aftershock will be, how much extra damage it might cause, and whether they will be hurt. Then there is the sadness at the loss of precious items in the big quake, worries about when homes will be repaired\u2014if they can be\u2014and where the money might come from. Add to that the daily grind for the many who are living without water and sewerage for the indefinite future. The memorial day will be an opportunity to remember those whose lives were lost, but we will also be thinking of those whose lives are now badly damaged and who are living in their own version of hell. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000217\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b8383f38-c78c-4e5d-8324-677d91e95c49\u0022\u003EHowever, the story of Christchurch is also the story of great resilience, of community spirit and togetherness. When going door-to-door in Aranui offering food and support, I came across a front lawn with a substantial fireplace and a pile of wood on it. The neighbours had been cooking food together. The next-door neighbour commented that it should not take a disaster to bring people together. But together they now are, and this story is repeated across the affected suburbs of Christchurch. Earlier that day I had been at Canterbury University watching students mobilising with their shovels for another hard day attacking the liquefaction. It brought tears to my eyes because, along with the Farmy Army, the students have shifted tonnes and tonnes of silt that was covering the lawns and drives of so many householders who did not know what to do next. Much of the food that we were distributing on that day in Aranui was home-baked goodies. I was particularly touched by a set of buns covered with white icing. The person who had baked them had taken the trouble to add lettering in pink icing to each bun, reading simply \u201CWe love you\u201D. That, to me, is the spirit of Christchurch today. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000218\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b8383f38-c78c-4e5d-8324-677d91e95c49\u0022\u003EI agree with what Annette King said. We have to take time to grieve; we have to take a breath. The memorial service on 18 March is only part of the process; there is a lot more to be done. Everyone in this House, particularly the Christchurch MPs\u2014including the Green MP Kennedy Graham\u2014are doing their utmost to offer assistance. That is to be commended. We are working very much in a cross-party spirit, as we should in such a tragedy, and I think we will all be together next week on 18 March with the people of Christchurch. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022 data-id=\u0022dff24d42c2bc4722ba2a52d9998ad288\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000219\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022dff24d42c2bc4722ba2a52d9998ad288\u0022\u003ETE URUROA FLAVELL (M\u0101ori Party\u2014Waiariki):\u003C/span\u003E T\u0113n\u0101 koe, Mr Assistant Speaker, kia ora t\u0101tou katoa e te Whare, otir\u0101 koutou e whakarongo mai n\u0101 ki ng\u0101 k\u014Drero e p\u0101oho atu nei ki a koutou i t\u0113nei rangi. K\u0101tahi an\u014D au ka whai w\u0101hi ki te t\u016B ake ki te tuku i w\u0101ku mihi, waku poroporoaki p\u0113nei i w\u0113tahi atu i ng\u0101 wiki kua hipi ake. K\u0101tahi an\u014D au ka t\u016B ake ki te k\u012B atu ki te hunga kua ngaro atu i te tirohanga kanohi, e moe, e moe, e moe. Ko koutou t\u0113r\u0101 ko te hunga i mate i Te Tai Poutini i ng\u0101 marama kua hipa ake. Haere koutou ki te wahang\u016Btanga. Haere koutou ki Hawaiki nui, ki Hawaiki roa, ki Hawaiki p\u0101mamao. Moe mai i roto i ng\u0101 ringaringa o te w\u0101hi ngaro m\u0101 r\u0101tou kotuou e manaaki, e tiaki. Hoi an\u014D ka hoki mai ki a t\u0101tou, ki a t\u0101tou e noho nei, me k\u012B, ng\u0101 urup\u0101 o r\u0101tau m\u0101, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 t\u0101tou katoa. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000220\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EKo t\u0113r\u0101 parekura nui i te 22 o Hui-tanguru kua tuhia ki roto i te ng\u0101kau, i te wairua o te tangata, me k\u012B, o te motu o Aotearoa m\u014D ake nei. \u0100hua p\u0113r\u0101 tonu ki t\u0113r\u0101 hunga i mate i raro i te whenua i Te Tai Poutini. Ko \u0113tahi o te Whare nei kua tae atu ki te \u014Ctautahi. Kua rongo koutou i te tangi. Kua rongo koutou i te mamae. Kua rongo koutou i te \u0101huatanga o mate. Kua kite koutou i ng\u0101 uauatanga, ng\u0101 mamaetanga o t\u0113n\u0101, o t\u0113n\u0101, o t\u0113n\u0101 e noho mai r\u0101 ki t\u0113r\u0101 takiw\u0101. Ko ahau, k\u0101re an\u014D kia tae atu. He mataku pea n\u014Dku, he mataku p\u0113nei n\u0101, t\u0113r\u0101 pea m\u0113n\u0101 ka haere au ki reira ka kite atu i ng\u0101 whare kua turakina. Ka kite atu i te \u0101huatanga o ng\u0101 kaimahi e k\u0113ri nei i te whenua kia kitea mai ai m\u0113n\u0101 he t\u016Bp\u0101paku ki reira, t\u0113r\u0101 pea ka tangi. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000221\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EK\u0101re e kore ka tangi, kia kite atu i t\u0113r\u0101 momo \u0101huatanga. Hoi an\u014D, ka taea te whakat\u016B an\u014D i t\u0113tahi whare h\u014Du, ka taea te hoki ki te kura, ka taea te whaiwhai haere i ng\u0101 taonga i roto i ng\u0101 whare engari, ko t\u0101ku noa ake, e kore pea te hunga e noho mai o roto o \u014Ctautahi e kite i te pu\u0101waitanga o ng\u0101 moemoe\u0101 kai mua i te aroaro, engari ko te mea tino nui rawa atu, kua tau mai te \u0101huatanga o te mamae, o taumaha, o anip\u0101, o \u0101wangawanga ki runga i a r\u0101tau m\u014D ake, ake nei. Koi nei te aroha atu. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000222\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EM\u0113n\u0101 ka hoki mai au ki t\u014Dku Ao M\u0101ori, ar\u0101 n\u014D \u0113tahi kaupapa e k\u014Drerohia ana. Ko t\u0113tahi, an\u0101 kai te p\u016Btake o t\u0113nei pire. Ko te ingoa o t\u0113r\u0101 tikanga, e kiia ana, ko te poroporoaki. He aha te poroporoaki? He w\u0101 e taea ana e te marea, e te marae ranei, e te tangata r\u0101nei te tuku i t\u014Dna ake k\u014Drero ki te hunga kua mate. Ahakoa kotahi nei, he ika hui rua r\u0101nei, he parekura r\u0101nei. Koi nei te \u0101huatanga o te poroporoaki. Ko t\u0101 te poroporoaki, he whiu i te kupu k\u014Drero ki runga i te tangata, he whakah\u0113 i a ia i \u0113tahi w\u0101 engari ko te nuinga o te w\u0101, he whakanui i a ia. He whakanui i ng\u0101 mea kua kitea nei, kua rangona nei e te nuinga. He w\u0101 ka whai w\u0101hi ng\u0101 tamariki ki te tuku i \u0113tahi k\u014Drero t\u0113r\u0101 pea, k\u0101ore i k\u014Drerohia i te w\u0101 i a r\u0101tou e ora ana, e takat\u016B ana i te mata o te whenua. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000223\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EHe w\u0101 kia heke te roimata, heke i te kanohi nei, ng\u0101 p\u0101p\u0101ringa o te tangata, an\u0101 m\u0101 \u0113nei tohu o te h\u016Bp\u0113 me te roimata, i k\u014Drerohia mai n\u0101 e te H\u014Dnore Pita Sharples, ka \u0101hua ng\u0101wari mai te \u0101huatanga o t\u0113nei mea o te mate. Engari, ko te 18 o ng\u0101 r\u0101 o t\u0113nei marama, k\u0101tahi te tangihanga ko t\u0113r\u0101. He tangihanga nui, whakaharahara m\u014D te motu wh\u0101nui tonu. N\u014D reira, ko t\u0101ku p\u0101tai ki a t\u0101tau, p\u0113hea e taea ai e te motu te whakanui r\u0101nei, te whaiwhai haere r\u0101nei i t\u0113nei mea o te poroporoaki i te mea, ar\u0101 \u0101n\u014D \u0113tahi raruraru p\u0113nei t\u0101 te H\u014Dnore Trevor Mallard i k\u014Drero mai n\u0101, in\u0101 tata nei. P\u0113nei i t\u0101 H\u014Dnore Annette King, p\u0113nei an\u014D r\u0101 i t\u0101 Keith Locke i te mea, ar\u0101 an\u014D ng\u0101 raruraru. Tuatahi, ko te tangata nei ko Joseph P\u014Dhio, n\u014D t\u0113r\u0101 takiw\u0101. Ko ia t\u0113r\u0101 i t\u014D mai i t\u0113tahi wahine, ki taku m\u014Dhio, \u0101, i te w\u0101 o te r\u016B. N\u0101, kite mai ai tana tinana, tana t\u016Bp\u0101paku kua tukuna n\u0101 tana marae a ia i poroporoaki, kua t\u0101pukengia ki te whenua, kua hoki an\u014D r\u0101 ki a Papat\u016B\u0101nuku. Ko ia t\u0113tahi i mahi nei i roto i te civil defence, e ai ki taku m\u014Dhio m\u014D ng\u0101 21 tau hipa noa atu. P\u0113hea e taea ai te tuku roimata i te mea kua ea t\u0113r\u0101? \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000224\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EP\u0113hea m\u014D ng\u0101 m\u0101tua o te p\u0113pi nei o Taneysha? E rima wiki noa iho tana pakeke. M\u014D Baxter? E rima marama noa iho t\u014Dna pakeke. He p\u0113pi, k\u0101re i kite i te pu\u0101waitanga o ng\u0101 moemoe\u0101, k\u0101ore i kite i te ao. Me p\u0113hea hoki te tuku i te roimata m\u014D te hunga pakeke, koeke, koroua r\u0101nei, kuia r\u0101nei? E ai ki ng\u0101 k\u014Drero, ko Stuart r\u0101ua Lucy Routledge. He whai\u0101ip\u014D i a r\u0101ua e tamariki ana, 50 tau r\u0101ua e noho tahi ana. T\u0113r\u0101 pea ko Maureen Fletcher? P\u0113r\u0101 an\u014D hoki t\u0113r\u0101 kuia, e ai ki taku rongo. E hia k\u0113 nei ng\u0101 ingoa, e hia k\u0113 nei ng\u0101 maumaharatanga. Kua turakinatia katoatia \u0113r\u0101 \u0101huatanga katoa. Me p\u0113hea e taea ai e t\u0101tau te whakatau i t\u0113r\u0101 hunga te k\u0101hui kua ngaro atu i te tirohanga kanohi. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000225\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EKo t\u0101ku, ko te mihi ki ng\u0101 kaip\u0101p\u0101ho e ngana nei, me k\u012B, ki te p\u0101oho i ng\u0101 k\u014Drero o t\u0113n\u0101, o t\u0113n\u0101 o te hunga kua ngaro. N\u0101 r\u0101tou an\u014D r\u0101 te k\u014Drero m\u014D Jaime Gilbert. Ko ia t\u0113r\u0101 i mate nei me tana m\u014Dhio, i te ora tana tana tuahine. Ko t\u0101 r\u0101tou ko t\u0101 te kaip\u0101p\u0101ho, he paoho i ng\u0101 k\u014Drero kia kitea \u0101-kanohi a Aotearoa, otir\u0101, te ao i ng\u0101 taumahatanga kua tau mai ki runga o Aotearoa. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000226\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EKo t\u0101ku p\u0101tai, e p\u0113nei ana. Me p\u0113hea te hunga k\u0101ore an\u014D kia whakahokia ki ng\u0101 wh\u0101nau p\u0101ni? Kai te tatari tonu, kai te tatari tonu r\u0101tou ki \u014D r\u0101tou ake t\u016Bp\u0101paku. P\u0113hea e taea ai te tuku i te k\u014Drero, i te mihi ki te hunga k\u0101ore an\u014D kia hoki mai ki roto i \u014D ringaringa? Koia nei kai te p\u016Btake o te k\u014Drero a te H\u014Dnore a Trevor Mallard. P\u0113hea e taea ai te tuku i ng\u0101 k\u014Drero h\u014Dhonu, wh\u0101nui m\u0113n\u0101 karekau he t\u016Bp\u0101paku. N\u0101, kei te \u0101hua tukituki t\u0113r\u0101 momo \u0101huatanga ki roto i te Ao M\u0101ori i te mea, ko t\u0101 te Ao M\u0101ori he kite atu i te t\u016Bp\u0101paku i te wharenui, \u0101, k\u0101tahi ka tuku i te mihi, i te poroporoaki. N\u014D reira, \u0113nei k\u014Drero katoa. P\u0113hea e taea ai te tangi, te auw\u0113, te waiata, te whaik\u014Drero r\u0101nei, te karanga r\u0101nei, \u0113nei tikanga o roto i te Ao M\u0101ori, engari ki taku m\u014Dhio he tikanga an\u014D r\u0101 kai t\u0113n\u0101, kai t\u0113n\u0101, kai t\u0113n\u0101. He uaua te tuku i te mamae, i te roimata, i te h\u016Bp\u0113 m\u0113n\u0101 karekau t\u0113tahi i reira. N\u014D reira, me whai whakaaro t\u0101tou m\u014D \u0113r\u0101. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000227\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EKa mutu, he hunga an\u014D o t\u0101w\u0101hi, he p\u0113r\u0101 an\u014D te \u0101hua. I rongo au i te reo irirangi, ko ng\u0101 wh\u0101nau o roto o Japan, he p\u0113r\u0101 an\u014D w\u0101 r\u0101tou tikanga. Kai te tatari tonu r\u0101tou kia hoki mai ng\u0101 t\u016Bp\u0101paku ki a r\u0101tou. N\u014D reira, kei te \u0101hua \u0101ro tonu \u014Dku whakaaro ki \u0113r\u0101 kua k\u014Drerohia. \u0100e, he kaupapa nui, \u0101e, me whakatinana, \u0101e, me tautoko engari, t\u0113r\u0101 pea he \u0101hua moata rawa m\u014D \u0113tahi. Kai kiia mai, whakateretere t\u0101tou i te haerenga o te hunga mate ki a Hinenuitep\u014D. Ko t\u0101ku e k\u012B nei, mahia te mahi, k\u0101re he h\u0113 o te whaiwhai haere i \u0113nei \u0101huatanga katoa engari, me whai t\u0101tou m\u014D te hunga k\u0101re an\u014D kia kite i \u014D r\u0101tou ake t\u016Bp\u0101paku. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000228\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EI k\u014Drerohia m\u014D te \u0101huatanga o t\u0113nei mea o te r\u0101hui. Ko te r\u0101hui, he momo taiapa kia kore te tangata e haere ki reira p\u0113nei i ng\u0101 taiapa i te t\u0101one o \u014Ctautahi i t\u0113nei w\u0101. He aha te tikanga o te r\u0101hui? Kia waiho ki t\u014Dna \u0101hua. Kia kaua e p\u0101 atu. I te ngahere, ka waihotia kia tipu, kia pu\u0101wai an\u014D r\u0101 ng\u0101 kai. M\u014D te r\u0101hui o te hunga kua ngaro, kia waiho ake, kia noho i runga i te \u0101huatanga o te tapu. He w\u0101 t\u014Dna, ka whakanoatia kia taea e te hunga te whakatau i te \u0101huatanga o mate. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000229\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EKa mutu, ko taku k\u014Drero whakamutunga, kia whai w\u0101hi an\u014D r\u0101 ko te \u0101huatanga o te karakia, kia whakang\u0101wari i te noho i \u014Ctautahi me te m\u014Dhio an\u014D hoki, k\u0101re an\u014D \u0113tahi tinana kia kitea noa. M\u0101 te karakia pea, ka whakang\u0101wari mai ai te noho o \u0113r\u0101 t\u016Bp\u0101paku ki reira. N\u014D reira, ko t\u0101 m\u0101tau, he tautoko, he tautoko engari, te t\u016Bmanako ia kua rongo i te tikanga o \u0113nei k\u014Drero, kaua ki te whakah\u0101wea engari, ki te k\u012B atu, ar\u0101 an\u014D \u0113tahi take e noho t\u0101rewa \u0101na. Huri noa i t\u014D t\u0101tau Whare, kia ora t\u0101tou.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000230\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003E[Greetings, Mr Assistant Speaker, and the House, and to those listening in today to this broadcast. This is my first opportunity to offer up words and farewells as others have done in these weeks past. This is my first opportunity to stand here and say to those who died, rest in peace; abide with those who perished in the disaster on the West Coast mere months ago, your voices hereafter mute. Depart to great Hawaiki, to long Hawaiki, to distant Hawaiki. Rest in the world of the spirits who are to care and tend you. Returning here, to us, as we sit here\u2014the remnants, so to speak\u2014I greet us all. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000231\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EThe disaster that fell on 22 February has for ever left an indelible mark on the hearts and the souls of the people of Aotearoa. Its effect was similar to the mining disaster on the West Coast. Some of the members of this House have visited Christchurch. You heard the lamentations. You sensed the pain. You felt the foreboding of death. You saw the effects of the disaster and the pain borne by the individuals of the region. I myself have not yet gone there. Perhaps I am fearful of going, lest I see the collapsed buildings, lest I witness the rescue workers digging through the rubble, searching for bodies, and lament. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000232\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EHaving to look upon those sights, I have no doubt that that is what would happen. Buildings can be rebuilt, students can in time return to school, and household possessions can eventually be replaced. I maintain, however, that the people of Christchurch will never see their dreams realised, and pain, darkness, worry, and anxiety will be a permanent companion. For this, I extend my love. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000233\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EAllow me to turn to aspects of my M\u0101ori World, Mr Assistant Speaker, and speak of things therein that here pertain. One of those aspects or customs is at the heart of this bill. That custom is poroporoaki. What is poroporoaki? Poroporoaki is the opportunity given for the multitude, or individuals, usually at a marae, to speak to the departed. It matters not whether one person is lying in state, or two, or many deaths due to disaster. In a poroporoaki, words of farewell are offered to the deceased. There are times when harsh words may be uttered, but most speeches extol the virtues of the deceased, the good that people saw and heard. Often an opportunity is given for young people to say farewell, perhaps share things they never said to the person when he or she was alive. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000234\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EThis is a time for acknowledging loss and expressing our grief. For it is the shedding of tears and mucus referred to by the Hon Pita Sharples that alleviates some of the pain caused by death. Come the 18th day of this month, we will grieve; the whole country will be in mourning. So my question is, how can the nation appropriately acknowledge and be engaged in the farewell to the dead? For as the Hon Trevor Mallard only recently stated, there are difficulties. The Hon Annette King and Keith Locke have also raised concerns. How do we pay our respects to them? How do we pay our respects to Joseph P\u014Dhio of Christchurch? During the earthquake he dragged a woman away from danger. When his body was found it was taken to his marae to be mourned, then interred in the bosom of the earth. I understand he had worked for civil defence for 21 years. How can we mourn this one if it has already been done? \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000235\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003E And what of the parents of baby Taneysha? She was only 5 weeks old. What about Baxter? He was only 5 months old. Those were babies who never got the chance to enjoy life. So many families are bereft, left without the wisdom and cultural heritage of their elders\u2014Stuart and Lucy Routledge, childhood sweethearts, married for over 50 years; grandmother Maureen Fletcher, ever remembered for her uplifting spirit\u2014so many names and memories and shattered dreams that we in this House cannot possibly do justice to. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000236\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EI want to acknowledge the media for trying to record the stories of the dead. They told us about Jaime Gilbert, who died with a smile on his face, knowing that his sister was out of harm\u2019s way. They have accurately recorded this tragedy so that the people of the country and the world can know the calamity that has befallen Aotearoa. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000237\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EI pose this question: what of the dead who have not yet been returned to their grieving families? The families are waiting for the release of their loved ones. How can one grieve for the dead if there is no body to address? That is at the heart of the address by the Hon Trevor Mallard: how can the appropriate words be said if there is no body? That conflicts with M\u0101oridom, for it is only when the deceased is lying in state in the meeting house that observations and farewells can be made. So in these circumstances, how can M\u0101ori acquit their customs, their lamentations, their mourning, their songs, their oratory? \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000238\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EI acknowledge that others have their own customs and practices. It is difficult to release the pain, the tears, and the mucus if there is no body. Think about that. Foreigners were also victims of the earthquake. I heard the media make mention of Japanese students who lost their lives. The Japanese have their own rituals and customs surrounding death, somewhat similar to M\u0101ori. They await the return of their loved ones to them. I listened to the comments on the proposed day of commemoration, and agree; yes it is a very significant occasion, it should proceed, and it should be supported by all. But some say that perhaps it is too early to hold a commemoration; accusations of moving with indecent haste to bury the dead are being made. I say, carry on with the task in hand. There is nothing wrong with carrying on with these proceedings, but give all support to those who still await the return of the bodies of their loved ones to them. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000239\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EI turn now to the term \u201C r\u0101hui\u201D. That term refers to a kind of fence or barricade that prevents people from entering, similar to the warning fences around parts of Christchurch. What is the purpose of r\u0101hui? Things are left alone, untouched. In the forest, r\u0101hui allows for regeneration and protection of food sources. For r\u0101hui in relation to the dead, let it remain in place, sacred. At the right time the r\u0101hui will be removed, and the grieving will settle. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000240\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EAnd finally, has space been afforded for the appropriate prayers to be given to give succour to Christchurch, in the knowledge that there are still bodies not yet recovered? Prayers may help to bring peace to those still buried under the rubble. We are in support. But we hope that our words are heeded, not to be taken as criticism, but to bring to the attention of all that some matters still need addressing. So to us all throughout our House, thank you.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002260200136-9d63-4a82-b4f5-c00411adb1fd\u0022 data-id=\u0022b8dbbdf8711a4e3c8d8ab1b55ffc2ee4\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000241\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002260200136-9d63-4a82-b4f5-c00411adb1fd\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022b8dbbdf8711a4e3c8d8ab1b55ffc2ee4\u0022\u003EJO GOODHEW (National\u2014Rangitata):\u003C/span\u003E As I rise to speak on the Canterbury Earthquake Commemoration Day Bill, I need to record my heartfelt sympathy to those who have suffered great loss as a result of the 22 February earthquake. Loss has come in many forms: loss of loved ones\u2014and with that, loss of future dreams and plans\u2014loss of homes and possessions, loss of businesses and jobs, and loss of what we knew to be the Christchurch we lived in, worked in, and visited. Here I must add an acknowledgment to those from overseas who are also mourning lost ones, and for some of them lost jobs, as well. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000242\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002260200136-9d63-4a82-b4f5-c00411adb1fd\u0022\u003EThis tragedy became international from the moment it happened. Reports of the earthquake sped rapidly around the world, and within minutes we were receiving texts and emails from people asking whether we were OK. Some of those texts and emails were never received, and no reply with good news will ever be received, either. In a modern world with communication tools aplenty, being out of communication causes immeasurable anxiety, particularly at a time like this. After the earthquake, cellphones helped to save lives, they helped to bring aid to those in need, and they brought good news to many, as well. We all looked at those texts with relief in our hearts. But the silence of cellphones when answers were sought was unnerving and worrying, and in the end hinted at sorrow and loss. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000243\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002260200136-9d63-4a82-b4f5-c00411adb1fd\u0022\u003EAlthough there has been great loss, correspondingly, great courage has been displayed and tremendous generosity exhibited. Again, the international nature of this event has marked its gravity. Incredibly rapidly, nations from around the world offered their assistance, and New Zealand, as a nation, said \u201CThank you. Yes, we do need your help.\u201D We are a generous nation when it comes to offering our expertise to others in strife, so it was no great surprise that it was reciprocated. It was no surprise; nevertheless, it was a huge comfort to know that the numbers of our incredibly skilled emergency personnel and our urban search and rescue people were to be massively swelled by ranks of Aussies, Singaporeans, Brits, Americans, Taiwanese, Chinese, and Japanese. We welcomed them with open arms. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000244\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002260200136-9d63-4a82-b4f5-c00411adb1fd\u0022\u003EEmergency services people in fluoro vests and in uniform brought enormous comfort to a nation on edge, as we hoped against hope that more lives could be saved in the aftermath of the earthquake. The courage of those who have been searching will spawn heart-warming and emotional stories that will become part of this nation\u2019s history. The early searchers were actually the people who were caught up in the earthquake. They displayed sometimes superhuman efforts as they freed trapped people. We heard of despair, elation, hope, and tragedy. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000245\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002260200136-9d63-4a82-b4f5-c00411adb1fd\u0022\u003EWe must acknowledge the media and the way they brought this event into our lives through all of their mediums. At times the scenes of destruction became too much, the bad news unendurable, and we turned them\u2014the media\u2014off. But, really, we could not escape the reality of what the Christchurch people were living through, so the question became what we were going to do in response. Everywhere\u2014again, not just in New Zealand but also internationally\u2014the questions were \u201CWhat can we do?\u201D and \u201CWhat should we do to help?\u201D. I have witnessed and spoken to people who have become quite agitated because they personally could not think of a way they could physically help. But over time we have worked out ways to help\u2014each of us in our own way. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000246\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002260200136-9d63-4a82-b4f5-c00411adb1fd\u0022\u003EThe armies of all shapes, sizes, and descriptions were there, mobilised. Our own armed forces, which so fortuitously were in Canterbury on an exercise, were in Christchurch very quickly. Then we had the Student Volunteer Army, the Farmy Army, the Salvation Army, the other church groups that mobilised their own armies of helpers, the army of Government departments that swung their plans of support into action, the health army, the armies of businesses that looked to fill every need their own expertise could offer, and the skilled and generous armies of volunteers who man every welfare centre and take aid to those in need. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000247\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002260200136-9d63-4a82-b4f5-c00411adb1fd\u0022\u003EOn Friday, 18 March we will commemorate the event, and it is fair to say that in my electorate of Rangitata there is a mixed reaction to the public holiday. The businesses in mid-Canterbury are concerned at the financial impact this unexpected public holiday will have on them. The decision to commemorate the event with a public holiday was not made without all the parties of Parliament considering its financial impact. The proposal the Government put to the other parties, and to which they have agreed, was to allow people, through the memorial service, to have a day on which to reflect upon the event and to be amongst their loved ones, family, and community. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000248\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002260200136-9d63-4a82-b4f5-c00411adb1fd\u0022\u003EIn South Canterbury, the southern part of my electorate, where people identify very closely with Christchurch and with their friends and families there and who feel like close neighbours of Christchurch, there is no public holiday, and some are not happy about that. Nevertheless, there will be an opportunity for them to mark the commemoration with reflection. It is my hope that through the memorial service in Christchurch and the planned services at lunchtime in Timaru and at 9.30 a.m. in Ashburton, our people can gather together to mourn, to pay tribute, and to gather their energies for the future. It is my hope that the day will be a day for reflection, tributes, and a strong sense of community and purpose. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000249\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002260200136-9d63-4a82-b4f5-c00411adb1fd\u0022\u003EAs our Prime Minister has said, we will stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of Christchurch and their loved ones. We will also stand shoulder to shoulder with those from other nations who have experienced loss. Our support, shoulder to shoulder, will not need to be just for today, tomorrow, and next week; it will be required for months and years to come. The people of Christchurch may doubt their strength when in the depths of despair, but they are gaining in strength, as are their neighbours in wider Canterbury. The strength of the nation will be from strong shoulders to help Christchurch in the days, weeks, months, and years to come. Thank you. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022a40f5af7-f9b0-4b44-9669-9e63be1c3ced\u0022 data-id=\u0022fb8aed5d226f4ac2a019038af8ae726c\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000250\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a40f5af7-f9b0-4b44-9669-9e63be1c3ced\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022fb8aed5d226f4ac2a019038af8ae726c\u0022\u003EDARIEN FENTON (Labour):\u003C/span\u003E It is a privilege to take a call on the Canterbury Earthquake Commemoration Day Bill. I start by paying my respects to all those who have lost their lives, to their families, to all those who have been injured, to all those who are still struggling just to get along in their homes, and to all those who have lost homes. Just the sheer enormity of this disaster, I think, has been a shock for all of us, even those who, like me, have not been to Christchurch since the tragedy. I think that all of us throughout New Zealand have been struggling to come to terms with this horrendous event. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000251\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a40f5af7-f9b0-4b44-9669-9e63be1c3ced\u0022\u003EI also acknowledge all of the Ministers, and particularly the Minister of Labour, who I know lives in Christchurch. I thank her for bringing this bill to the House. Even though we have some reservations\u2014very small ones\u2014about the timing of it, we think it is a very good gesture, and an appropriate one in the circumstances. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000252\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a40f5af7-f9b0-4b44-9669-9e63be1c3ced\u0022\u003EThere is genuine grief and sadness throughout the country. It will last for some time to come, and there will be many times in the future also when people will need support. They need it now, but they will continue to need it. We must make sure that the commemoration day commemorates those who lost their lives and takes care of the families that are suffering. But also we must look to the future and continue to work together to help rebuild Christchurch. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000253\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a40f5af7-f9b0-4b44-9669-9e63be1c3ced\u0022\u003EIt affects us all. We are all in this together, and all of those who live today will not forget it easily or quickly. My grandfather was in the Napier earthquake, and he talked about it a lot. He was a minister of religion at the time, and he had to immediately leave his family of four and help his parishioners. My father, who was just a little boy, relates the story that he was at school and was walking away from a building when he turned round and saw an enormous crevice behind him. He ended up with a little ticket, almost like a refugee ticket, that helped him get access to food and other things. Both my grandfather and father were enormously affected by that earthquake. Both of them had been through world wars, but the earthquake was the thing they talked about much more when we talked about tragedies and the awful things that had happened in their lifetimes. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000254\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a40f5af7-f9b0-4b44-9669-9e63be1c3ced\u0022\u003EI think the commemoration day is an appropriate response to the tragedy. I dedicate the words in my first reading speech this afternoon to the workers of Canterbury. Many of the people that were killed or injured were just ordinary working people who were going about their jobs. It was tragic that it happened at lunchtime. Some had stepped outside and gone to lunch, and were caught in Cashel Mall, and others had just come back from lunch and had just got back into their buildings when their buildings collapsed. They were just people who went to work in the morning, said goodbye to their families, and were never seen again. That is utterly heartbreaking. We mourn all of those workers\u2014the dead, the injured, and the lost\u2014but also we mourn with all the people who are affected. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000255\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a40f5af7-f9b0-4b44-9669-9e63be1c3ced\u0022\u003EI also acknowledge all the workers that have been at the forefront of the rescue effort in Christchurch, and I thank the Minister of Police for her contribution today. It is pretty gruelling stuff to listen to, and it must be even more gruelling to be working on the front line, retrieving the lost, and trying to get them back to their families. It is a pretty gruesome job, and I thank them for being there to do that. An important part of families being able to have closure is getting their loved ones home and saying goodbye to them. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000256\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a40f5af7-f9b0-4b44-9669-9e63be1c3ced\u0022\u003EOf course, there were firefighters and rescue workers, health workers, social support workers, education workers, and community workers. An enormous effort has been put in by the working people of Christchurch, and, indeed, around the country. People have mentioned, for example, Ministry of Social Development workers. I tried to contact my local Ministry of Social Development office in Northcote the other day, and the message was that they were all working on Christchurch. That is fair enough; I understand that. It just shows us the effort that is being put in, and I really appreciate it. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000257\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a40f5af7-f9b0-4b44-9669-9e63be1c3ced\u0022\u003EWhen Helen Clark, our previous Prime Minister, visited Christchurch, she said it was worse than Haiti. I am sure it is worse in terms of devastation, but what is not worse is the fact that we live in a country that is a democracy, has great public services, has a Government and a Parliament that are able to work together, and is wealthy enough to get through this\u2014and we will get through this. We do not have to witness the dreadful post-earthquake scenes we saw in Haiti. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000258\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a40f5af7-f9b0-4b44-9669-9e63be1c3ced\u0022\u003EThere are many stories, which will emerge in the weeks to come, of workers who were absolute heroes. Let me say that I am not talking about just workers\u2014I know there were many heroes\u2014but I particularly want to talk about them. I heard of workers who helped workmates out through the rubble and over the bricks, and who put their own lives at risk to help people they were working with. Thousands of workers have volunteered, along with the rest of the community, to help in a variety of ways, despite their own losses. They may have lost a loved one or be missing someone, they may have lost their homes, and they may be living in absolute devastation. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000259\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a40f5af7-f9b0-4b44-9669-9e63be1c3ced\u0022\u003ECaregivers helped relocate hundreds of older people from aged-care facilities to other parts of the country. Can members imagine what it was like for those who live with disabilities, particularly those with intellectual disabilities who are living in their family home? It would have been caregivers who comforted them and looked after them. Nurses rolled up their sleeves and went off to work. They reported for duty and got stuck in, as, of course, did doctors. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000260\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a40f5af7-f9b0-4b44-9669-9e63be1c3ced\u0022\u003EAs I said, I think it is really appropriate that we set aside a day to mourn the losses, and it is appropriate that it is a public holiday, because there is no other way we can be sure that the workers of Christchurch will be able to attend\u2014there is no other way. As others have said, we have some questions about whether it is the right time, but I do not want to go into that too much at the moment. Like my colleague Trevor Mallard, I want to ensure that the front-line workers\u2014police officers, health workers, and rescue workers\u2014are able to attend. I feel a little concerned that they will be needed elsewhere, and I would appreciate the cooperation of the Government in trying to get the message through that it is very important for those workers to attend, because it is for them as much as anyone else. Imagine what they have witnessed and what they have been through in the last couple of weeks. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000261\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a40f5af7-f9b0-4b44-9669-9e63be1c3ced\u0022\u003EThere are consequences, of course, of the earthquake. I do not want to go into them too much, but thousands of workers are now out of a job. A lot of businesses no longer exist, and many are on the margins. I think there will be questions about that as we go through the next few weeks. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000262\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a40f5af7-f9b0-4b44-9669-9e63be1c3ced\u0022\u003EWhile I have the opportunity I want to say that the Government\u2019s response, its emergency package, was far more generous than last time, and I know it has been taken up by tens of thousands. I think that something like $50 million has been given out so far, and I congratulate the Government on that. There are some other issues around that response package. I do not intend to go into them now; maybe I will a little later in the debate. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000263\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a40f5af7-f9b0-4b44-9669-9e63be1c3ced\u0022\u003EI reiterate my genuine sorrow and sadness about this dreadful event and give my aroha to the people of Canterbury, to the people in this House who are suffering, and to all of us in New Zealand, who will have to stand together to get through this.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002251dfea20-2244-4fc7-bd7d-ebf7a98580e1\u0022 data-id=\u0022c60c030c7f9949f59d15f2301b3715f9\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000264\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002251dfea20-2244-4fc7-bd7d-ebf7a98580e1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022c60c030c7f9949f59d15f2301b3715f9\u0022\u003EHon TAU HENARE (National):\u003C/span\u003E Te mea tuatahi, ki ng\u0101 m\u014Drehu, ki ng\u0101 wh\u0101nau pani o te r\u016B whenua o \u014Ctautahi, ka nui taku mihi me taku aroha ki a koutou katoa. Ki ng\u0101 mate o te parekura nei, haere atu r\u0101, haere atu r\u0101, haere atu r\u0101. He w\u0101 potopoto t\u0113nei mihimihi, he w\u0101 potopoto t\u0113nei aroha ki a r\u0101tou engari, nunui taku mihi, nunui taku aroha ki a r\u0101tou katoa i roto i te rohe p\u014Dtae o Ng\u0101i Tahu. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000265\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002251dfea20-2244-4fc7-bd7d-ebf7a98580e1\u0022\u003EHe p\u0101tai t\u0101ku ki taku hoa, ki taku tuakana a Te Ururoa. He aha te kaupapa, he aha te tikanga m\u014D te r\u0101 e heke mai nei \u0101 te 18? N\u014D te mea, k\u0101ore t\u0113r\u0101 r\u0101 he r\u0101 nehu. Harakau ng\u0101 t\u016Bp\u0101paku i mua i a m\u0101tou n\u014D reira, p\u0101tai ai ki a koutou katoa i roto i te rangim\u0101rie. He aha te tikanga, he aha te kaupapa o te r\u0101 nei? Ki ahau nei, he whakamaumahara, he whakah\u014Dnore i ng\u0101 m\u014Drehu, i ng\u0101 t\u016Bp\u0101pakui r\u0101nei i \u014Ctautahi. K\u0101ore he r\u0101 nehu. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000266\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002251dfea20-2244-4fc7-bd7d-ebf7a98580e1\u0022\u003E[First of all, my immense sympathy and admiration to you all, the survivors and grieving families of the Christchurch earthquake. In regard to those who died in this disaster, I bid you farewell, goodbye, journey on. While this acknowledgment and tribute is a very, very brief one, my sorrow and regard to all of them in the Ng\u0101i Tahu region is immense. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000267\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002251dfea20-2244-4fc7-bd7d-ebf7a98580e1\u0022\u003EI have a question to my fellow member and senior relative Te Ururoa. What is the thinking and meaning behind the coming 18th? Because it is not a burial day. Those who died will not be lying in state before us. So I ask this of you all, with respect and without malice. What is the purpose and meaning of this day? To me, it is a day to commemorate and honour the survivors or those from Christchurch who died. It is not a burial day.] \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000268\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002251dfea20-2244-4fc7-bd7d-ebf7a98580e1\u0022\u003EI have been trying to figure out in which box to put 18 March. I for one am not concerned about the day itself, but I am concerned about the significance, the tikanga, and the protocol behind it all. To me it is not right and it is not wrong; my own personal point of view is that 18 March is a time to commemorate not only those who lost their lives but also those who survived, and those who assisted with the recovery and the rescue. It is a day to honour all of those people of Christchurch. I am a fan of history, so I have looked very hard at Napier over the years. I have looked at all sorts of incidents that have happened in our world over the last 100-odd years. But in my room at 10 to 1 on that fateful day, I could not help but be transfixed and heartbroken at what I was seeing.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000269\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002251dfea20-2244-4fc7-bd7d-ebf7a98580e1\u0022\u003EI also say that that day will become a day for the people of Christchurch, who, regardless of their own personal circumstances, have reached out to strangers and to people they would not even say hello to on a normal day. It shows the strength of Christchurch and of the people in Christchurch, of people in New Zealand, and also of people around the world, that we can actually assist and help each other in a time of need.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000270\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002251dfea20-2244-4fc7-bd7d-ebf7a98580e1\u0022\u003EI commend the Canterbury Earthquake Commemoration Day Bill to the House. It is unfortunate that we have to use the word \u201Choliday\u201D\u2014ehara i te hararei\u2014but it is the only word that allows us\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000271\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a33209fe3a554a4bb9b13425d5b9cc44\u0022\u003EHon Trevor Mallard\u003C/span\u003E: \u201CHoly day\u201D\u2014pronounce it the old way.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000272\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002251dfea20-2244-4fc7-bd7d-ebf7a98580e1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022893f679c0c0d4743a29c66db82c39079\u0022\u003EHon TAU HENARE\u003C/span\u003E: I do not believe that it is a holy day. I do not believe that it is a holy day; I think it is a special day, a commemorative day. T\u0113r\u0101 te tikanga o te r\u0101 nei, ki ahau nei. Kaua e p\u0101p\u014Duri ki t\u014Dku nei whakaaro.\t\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000273\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002251dfea20-2244-4fc7-bd7d-ebf7a98580e1\u0022\u003E[That is what that day means to me\u2014and do not be disappointed.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000274\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002251dfea20-2244-4fc7-bd7d-ebf7a98580e1\u0022\u003EI commend the bill to the House. I think it is appropriate that we commemorate all those people who have been involved, who have been hit, and who have been hurt by this huge event that will live long in our memories as we go on.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000275\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002251dfea20-2244-4fc7-bd7d-ebf7a98580e1\u0022\u003EI give my special regards to Ng\u0101i Tahu and to all of the iwi who have rallied around and sent health teams. The brother-in-law has kept me informed of what Tainui has been doing, so I congratulate Tainui. I congratulate Te Arawa, Raukawa, and all of those iwi who have seen fit to send teams of helpers to Christchurch to help not only Ng\u0101i Tahu but also their wh\u0101nau. It shows that iwi can actually help each other in their time of need, as well.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000276\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002251dfea20-2244-4fc7-bd7d-ebf7a98580e1\u0022\u003EHoi an\u014D, an\u014D taku mihi, an\u014D taku aroha ki a r\u0101tou, ki \u014D r\u0101tou mamae, ki \u014D r\u0101tou\u0101wangawanga hoki. N\u014D reira, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, \u0101, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, kia ora mai t\u0101tou katoa.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000277\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002251dfea20-2244-4fc7-bd7d-ebf7a98580e1\u0022\u003E[So my sympathy and admiration again to them, for their pains and concerns, as well. Greetings to you, greetings to you, and to us all.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002259e9efe2-6dea-4eeb-869a-ef5b3e48a5b5\u0022 data-id=\u00221bf042f83f7b4f77bc75466190c20476\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000278\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002259e9efe2-6dea-4eeb-869a-ef5b3e48a5b5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00221bf042f83f7b4f77bc75466190c20476\u0022\u003ECHARLES CHAUVEL (Labour):\u003C/span\u003E It is an honour to have an opportunity to speak in the debate on the Canterbury Earthquake Commemoration Day Bill. As others before me have done, I begin by acknowledging the people of Christchurch and Canterbury, and in particular those who have died or who have been injured, and their families and friends. I also echo the words of appreciation that have already been said in the House about the work of the emergency services\u2014both the workers in the domestic New Zealand services and also all of those from overseas who have come to assist New Zealand in its hour of need. There would not be one person in the Chamber who has not been moved by that extraordinary gesture of support that was so quickly forthcoming and so reassuring. It almost seemed as if we did not need to ask. The help was there and it has been, and is, magnificent. I know that the police and others have been incredibly impressed by the level of the support they have been able to call on, and have also said what a difference it has made in practice on the ground. I do not think that we, as MPs, can do enough to stress just how important that support has been.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000279\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002259e9efe2-6dea-4eeb-869a-ef5b3e48a5b5\u0022\u003EObviously, it is also appropriate to acknowledge all the many New Zealanders who have volunteered in many ways\u2014through fund-raising or their own labour, and through donating cakes at the bake-off in Auckland the other day\u2014or who have simply got on with providing assistance in whatever way they have been able to. The importance of what we are doing today by moving to enact this bill, I think, is to acknowledge all those people, and to say that we want to do something concrete by way of demonstrating appreciation as well as doing the appropriate thing to remember all those who have been so devastated by the event itself.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000280\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002259e9efe2-6dea-4eeb-869a-ef5b3e48a5b5\u0022\u003EI had a family member in Christchurch on the day of the quake. For my family and me it was an anxious time while we waited to hear about her safety. She told us just how terrifying it was to be in the quake itself. She managed to get under a table when it started, and when she got out from under the table after the earthquake, she saw that a bookcase had fallen right on to the chair she had been sitting on and crushed it. She then described just how awful it was to be there for another 24 hours, hearing the roaring sound of the aftershocks. I know that Canterbury members who have experienced this must have found that it really wears them down on a daily basis. It was hard enough to hear about a family member being trapped in it for a day. The sense of relief that we felt when she arrived back in Wellington was extraordinary. If that is what it feels like to have a connection on that sort of intimate level for 24 hours, it must be much more harrowing to be living this day to day in Canterbury and participating in the recovery efforts.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000281\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002259e9efe2-6dea-4eeb-869a-ef5b3e48a5b5\u0022\u003EI also acknowledge a staff member of mine who moved to Wellington from Christchurch last year, and who has family and friends still down there. I have seen firsthand what she has gone through, in terms of finding out about loved ones affected by the quake and about people close to her who have died. Again, it is not a firsthand experience, but it gives some insight into just what people in Canterbury are going through at the moment. It makes it doubly appropriate, I think, for us to be mindful of those experiences while we have this debate today.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000282\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002259e9efe2-6dea-4eeb-869a-ef5b3e48a5b5\u0022\u003EOf course, other memorial services have already been held across the nation, and I speak in particular of the ones that were held on 1 March. There was the service here on the steps of Parliament, which was organised by the Anglican Cathedral next door, and in which a number of other faiths participated. It was a real privilege to be able to participate in that service on behalf of colleagues. The deputy leader of the Labour Party has said previously that it is appropriate that it has been agreed that the procedure to be followed on 18 March is that partisanship will be set aside and there will be speakers from across the House. That is absolutely right. These affairs ought to be ones where we can participate as a Parliament in a solemn and non-political occasion. I hope that that will always be the convention in respect of these sorts of matters. We should not even have to ask about them; it should be second nature that these events are held in this way.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000283\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002259e9efe2-6dea-4eeb-869a-ef5b3e48a5b5\u0022\u003EIn respect of the present bill, I do not think that anybody disagrees with the absolute appropriateness of a day of commemoration, a day of honouring the work that has been done already in relation to the Canterbury recovery. I am not sure how the House will progress this debate\u2014or whether there will be a traditional Committee stage where the Minister will discuss any issues concerning the bill. Depending on how we proceed, it might be appropriate to ask her a couple of questions about what is planned. I will foreshadow a couple of issues now that I hope she might be able to have a think about. Whether we have a Committee stage or whether the Minister chooses to deal with questions in her second or third reading speeches, I am happy either way. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000284\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002259e9efe2-6dea-4eeb-869a-ef5b3e48a5b5\u0022\u003EObviously there has been a concern about timing. A lot of people in Canterbury are still engaged in the recovery and clean-up. There are still lots of people without power, sewerage, or water, and we know that all effort is being put into prioritising the restoration of those services. We know how important that is, but will the commemoration day be too soon for some of the people working in essential services, the people who have contributed in the aftermath: police officers, civil defence staff, fire brigades, doctors and nurses, other health workers, drainlayers, contractors, demolition crews, and many others? It would just be fantastic to be assured that appropriate provision will be made so that everybody who wants to come together to participate in the service on 18 March will have the opportunity to take a little bit of respite from the dreadful recovery work and have the opportunity to do that. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000285\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002259e9efe2-6dea-4eeb-869a-ef5b3e48a5b5\u0022\u003EOf course there are the 70,000 people who have already left Canterbury, and who are only just beginning to think about whether they can return. It would be good to know that the Government has thought about their position, as well. Obviously people who have had to leave but want to come back and be part of the commemoration process need to be considered, as well. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000286\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002259e9efe2-6dea-4eeb-869a-ef5b3e48a5b5\u0022\u003EI do not think there is any doubt about the appropriateness of a public holiday. I do not think we should be concerned about the economics. I had a call from one of the MPs in Christchurch today who was working with a delicatessen in Lyttelton that has had to move premises. The owners need to apply for a new licence because they serve wine. They were told by the city council that if they applied for a new licence it would be opposed, because the policy now is that delicatessens are not the ideal place to serve wine. Well, that is the sort of red tape we need to cut through, rather than worry about whether we should be having a public holiday and the effects of that. With those words I congratulate the Government on moving to a commemoration, and I commend the bill to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022 data-id=\u00226db3a9d720c14feb90ca43f386c439f0\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000287\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00226db3a9d720c14feb90ca43f386c439f0\u0022\u003EDAVID BENNETT (National\u2014Hamilton East):\u003C/span\u003E I follow on from all the speakers in the House today, and, I am sure, all the members of the House and the wider New Zealand community, in paying respect to the people of Christchurch, their family and friends, and all those involved in the rescue efforts from New Zealand and around the world. The spirit of the Canterbury people has shown resilience and a desire to be strong in these times, and the wider New Zealand public has shown tremendous feeling and respect for the people of Christchurch and Canterbury and the desire to help where they can. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000288\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003EA lot of what has been done and is being done is quite symbolic, in the sense of sharing emotions and grief. That symbolism is also very important to people going through the situation in Christchurch, who know that they have support and comradeship, and that they are in the thoughts and feelings of all New Zealanders. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000289\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003EThe Canterbury Earthquake Commemoration Day Bill enshrines another aspect of symbolism of the support that New Zealanders are willing to show at this time. It sets aside a holiday for the people of Christchurch and Canterbury in commemoration of the devastating consequences of the earthquake. It will be a symbol for that region of what people have endured, and also, I am sure, a symbol of what they want to achieve and rebuild. Such a symbol will be followed by people throughout New Zealand also, and, I guess, around the world, by New Zealanders overseas, who wish to pay tribute and wish to support the country and the people of Canterbury at this time. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000290\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003ESpeaking as one of the members from outside the Canterbury region, I express that our thoughts and our feelings are with the people of Canterbury and Christchurch. We look forward to this day as a way to show that support, so that the people of Christchurch know that they are supported and that New Zealanders are together and with each other in showing respect for the people of Christchurch at this time. I commend the bill to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000291\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003EBill read a first time.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000292\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubproceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u0022d6ac5ba4620c4859ba88f9141474deee\u0022\u003ESecond Reading\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022136da8c4-afc7-483e-a39c-c66812f71774\u0022 data-id=\u0022e2302255d47046a4b09e284614272566\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000293\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022136da8c4-afc7-483e-a39c-c66812f71774\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022e2302255d47046a4b09e284614272566\u0022\u003EHon KATE WILKINSON (Minister of Labour):\u003C/span\u003E I move, That the Canterbury Earthquake Commemoration Day Bill be now read a second time. As we have said, this bill provides for 18 March 2011 to be a day of commemoration in those parts of Canterbury that observe Christchurch Show Day as Canterbury Anniversary Day, in order to commemorate the devastating consequences of the Canterbury earthquake on 22 February 2011 at 12.51 p.m. It is a day and a time that will, I think, be indelibly etched on all our minds for many, many years and decades to come. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000294\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022136da8c4-afc7-483e-a39c-c66812f71774\u0022\u003EThis day will be treated as a public holiday, with schools required to close for the purposes of the Education Act. There is no restriction on shop trading. Businesses will be able to continue trading on the day, if they choose to. The significance of having a public holiday on Friday, 18 March is to provide people with an opportunity to attend the memorial service for the victims of the 22 February earthquake. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000295\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022136da8c4-afc7-483e-a39c-c66812f71774\u0022\u003EA couple of issues were raised in some of the first reading speeches, and as a Cantabrian I thank all members of the House for the compassion, the feelings, and the concern expressed for Canterbury and Christchurch. Christchurch is my home town and, as many will know, I am a pretty proud Cantabrian. One of the issues was whether it should be a national public holiday or a regional public holiday. It was considered more appropriate that it be a provincial holiday. It is an important day of mourning for Canterbury and is very personal for the region. That is not, however, to diminish its national importance, and, indeed, also its international importance. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000296\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022136da8c4-afc7-483e-a39c-c66812f71774\u0022\u003EEconomically, it is also important that the rest of the country can continue working, as this will assist Canterbury and the Canterbury rebuild. It is certainly hoped that many people throughout the country outside Canterbury will at least be able to watch the service from afar so that they, in their own place and in their own way, can mourn. They can pay tribute, contemplate the utter tragedy of what happened, build strength, and use that strength to help Cantabrians and New Zealanders on the long road ahead for the rebuild and recovery. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000297\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022136da8c4-afc7-483e-a39c-c66812f71774\u0022\u003EI also acknowledge one of the previous speakers who referred to the timing and asked why we are holding a provincial holiday on 18 March. I am not sure that there is ever a right time for such a commemoration. For some, undeniably, it will be too soon; for some it may be too late; and for some it is about right. But we hope that it is appropriate for Cantabrians to join together on that day and to know they are not alone. We are there with them, shoulder to shoulder, as a province and a nation, and as a Parliament, to help them down the long road of recovery and rebuild. It will be a chance to reflect on the terrible loss of life suffered as a result of the earthquake and the massive impact it has had on our second-largest city. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000298\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022136da8c4-afc7-483e-a39c-c66812f71774\u0022\u003EIt is also an opportunity to give thanks for the civil defence services, by which I mean the volunteers, the community, the friends, the family, and the professionals. All were out there working with one thought in mind, and that was the welfare of Cantabrians and Christchurch people and of the visitors who had been so unfortunately caught up in such a tragic event. I think we can have some pride in the resilience of our communities when we have our professionals\u2014the police, nurses, doctors, civil defence professionals, and search and rescue workers\u2014and volunteers all out there with no thought at all for their own homes, which were also shattered and in tatters in many cases. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000299\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022136da8c4-afc7-483e-a39c-c66812f71774\u0022\u003EThis is an opportunity for the people of Canterbury to mourn together. We consider that providing a one-off public holiday for the people of northern and central Canterbury to allow them this opportunity to attend a memorial service is an appropriate response in these truly difficult times. I commend this bill to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022 data-id=\u00229aeac1b64ce542c1a7d4924d4e58573d\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000300\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00229aeac1b64ce542c1a7d4924d4e58573d\u0022\u003EHon TREVOR MALLARD (Labour\u2014Hutt South):\u003C/span\u003E I indicate again, without any surprise, that Labour will support the second reading of the Canterbury Earthquake Commemoration Day Bill, and will support the bill going through tonight. I acknowledge the speeches that were made after mine. I know that is slightly unusual after the first reading. In particular, I commend the eloquent speech my colleague Mr Flavell made. He expressed much of what he said as being for M\u0101ori, but I think much of what he said applies to all New Zealanders. The importance of having the dead to commemorate and memorialise is important. He made some comments about the timing of the commemoration, and getting that right. Although we are heading for a parliamentary, unified outcome, in the end the date is the Government\u2019s decision. We understand that a certain amount of the timing has been driven by the availability of international visitors, so we acknowledge that and we accept that this is going to happen. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000301\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003EBut I think this leaves us with a question about what happens later. I think we should take time\u2014months, or even years\u2014to decide how we want to remember this occasion. I will also mention Pike River, because proportionately, in community size, that was an enormous tragedy too. I hate to think of putting labels on tragedy, but it is almost like we will have to make some sort of memorial arrangements for the South Island tragedies of 2010 and 2011. It may be that people with better linguistic skills than mine can develop a label for that, and we can head towards some sort of commemoration on a regular basis. As I said earlier, I think too often we think of physical commemorations, and we have to find ways of thinking more deeply than that. I indicate to the Minister of Labour that she might have a bit of work to do in Christchurch. I have just seen a comment that has come through from local business people who have some anxiety about the timing of the commemoration. I think it is important that she works hard to get them on board with this. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000302\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003EI did not think I ever would have felt supportive of \u201Cred and black\u201D. I am a strong Wellingtonian, and when it comes to it, at least as far as New Zealand is concerned, in the National Provincial Championship I support Wellington, and anyone who is playing Canterbury. We have seen the fervour of some of us watching the rugby match last Friday night. I send our best wishes to the Crusaders, and if they can do the London thing I think that would be a wonderful opportunity for the tens\u2014or hundreds\u2014of thousands of New Zealanders in Europe. If they have an opportunity to be brought together on that sort of occasion, I think that would be superb. It is an opportunity to get together and remember, but it is also related to an event that shows some of the best of Canterbury. Although I do not always want the Crusaders to win, I acknowledge the fact that they regularly do. I certainly hope they will on that occasion. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000303\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003EI do not know whether the Minister in charge of the bill has given a briefing in this area yet, but it might be an opportunity for her to give some further explanation around the international fund that Mr Weldon has been engaged to work on for the next 4 to 6 weeks. Getting the pitch of it right is very important. We cannot be seen to be in a situation like Haiti. We are not. We are not a poor country, and we have to be very, very careful not to be seen to be begging for others to do what is our responsibility to put right. I understand that a figure of $2 billion has been set by the Prime Minister as the objective of the fund. I think we need to be very clear right from the outset about the use of that money. In my opinion, it should be used for extra things\u2014not to replace things, but used for things that were not there before\u2014in order to make Christchurch a better and more attractive place. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000304\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003ELike many of us in the last couple of weeks, with Parliament not sitting, I have had a little bit of time on my hands. I have had a look at the articles about Kobe and what happened there. It was a double disaster. There was an earthquake, and then, effectively, there was an abandonment of the city by some of its leadership and some of the city\u2019s most important people. As a result, Kobe has effectively become a low-income refuge. I was discussing that situation this morning with one of the leading young brains of Canterbury, whose name is not unfamiliar to this place. James Caygill said he was confident that that situation would not happen in Canterbury and that there are people of his generation and younger who are so firmly Cantabrians that they will stay. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000305\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003EHowever, I just want to signal that I think there is a danger that people are scared and that as a result they might stay away, and there is also the possibility that many of the opportunities that people need might not now be available in Christchurch. So as we rebuild Christchurch we have to think of ways of rebuilding the city\u2019s people strength. Some of my initial thoughts for the Minister would involve some very well-endowed chairs at the university so that some of the best professors from around the world could be attracted to Canterbury, for either a shorter term or a longer term, in order to rebuild the university. A similar approach could be taken to PhD scholarships so that we can get people to come to Christchurch, even if it is for only 4 or 5 years. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000306\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003EI am glad Mr Joyce has returned to the Chamber, because I am working on the assumption that he has responsibility for international education. I give him one little piece of advice. A couple of times in the past, after crises with international students\u2014and this has not been very public\u2014we have found it very worthwhile to send a Minister of Education to China quite early in the process in order to give some explanations there. Those in both China and Japan have very much appreciated that. I think in the interests of longer-term relationships that if we are seen to be sending senior personnel there, even if for only a day, to meet with officials and with whichever family members can be gathered there, it would be very much appreciated. Not only do we have to look after our own commemorations, but we have to acknowledge that a significant proportion of the people who have died are not from New Zealand. We need to ensure that that is acknowledged and that those relationships are maintained.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022749d97b8-a772-4227-83da-b5e264c37bc0\u0022 data-id=\u0022bcfa2c624dba4bcf8a1a587973cfd47f\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000307\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022749d97b8-a772-4227-83da-b5e264c37bc0\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022bcfa2c624dba4bcf8a1a587973cfd47f\u0022\u003EALLAN PEACHEY (National\u2014T\u0101maki):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Mr Deputy Speaker, for the opportunity to make a few comments on the second reading of the Canterbury Earthquake Commemoration Day Bill. I will take a moment to reflect on the 6 years I had in Christchurch in the later years of the 1960s and the early 1970s as a student of Canterbury University\u2014in particular, and most fortuitously, as a student of what was known as the town site, those beautiful buildings to which I always used to return whenever I was in the centre of Christchurch to take a moment\u2019s rest on the seats in the old courtyard where we used to gather as students and enjoy the beauty of the city. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000308\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022749d97b8-a772-4227-83da-b5e264c37bc0\u0022\u003EI take a moment to reflect also on the 60-plus years of my life and on the small and larger tragedies that from time to time have befallen the people of this country\u2014the most poignant for me being the Tangiwai disaster in 1953. As it was with those tragedies, so it has been, and so it will be, with Christchurch, with the rescue of the trapped, the rescue and treatment of the injured, the recovery and mourning of the lost, and the reflection on the power of nature but also on the power of human love and the spirit, which we all have, that can never ever be beaten. As those qualities were brought to other tragedies, so they are being brought, and will continue to be brought, to Christchurch and Canterbury. The lives of the people who are affected will be rebuilt, and the city will also be rebuilt. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00227df975cd-93d2-4f55-9bc5-d2790e28e043\u0022 data-id=\u00225fe3e041100249a6a765975349c46acc\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000309\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227df975cd-93d2-4f55-9bc5-d2790e28e043\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00225fe3e041100249a6a765975349c46acc\u0022\u003EHon MARYAN STREET (Labour):\u003C/span\u003E First of all, I will begin by recognising and paying tribute to those who lost their lives in the 22 February earthquake in Canterbury. I think of their loved ones and the people who are grieving for them. I also wish to acknowledge those who have been injured and who are still suffering and trying to recover from serious injury. For some, the mental injury will be the difficult issue to deal with and will linger for a long time.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000310\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227df975cd-93d2-4f55-9bc5-d2790e28e043\u0022\u003EJust a few minutes ago on my BlackBerry I received a photo. It was a photo of the United States - New Zealand Partnership Forum, of which I was a part. The photo was taken at the AMI Stadium about an hour before the earthquake struck. It was a forum that consisted of some very high-powered US delegates. Fortunately those on the largest congressional visit to this country that there had ever been had left earlier that morning for Wellington, so were out of harm\u2019s way. However, Kurt Campbell, the Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, Christopher Hill, the previous Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, numerous business leaders from the United States, corporate dignitaries, an only recently retired senator, and their wives and partners were all assembled with their New Zealand counterparts. It is good to have this lovely picture taken across the breadth of the AMI Stadium at that time. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000311\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227df975cd-93d2-4f55-9bc5-d2790e28e043\u0022\u003EBy the time the earthquake struck, the conference had divided up into small groups to go out and visit and have lunch briefings with Christchurch businesses. I was at Tait Electronics, out towards the airport; others were dispersed around the city. It was a circumstance that gave the American ambassador, as he said to me later, 2 hours of panic as he tried to assemble all his compatriots from around the city. I pay tribute to the Defence Force personnel and the staff at the Antarctic Centre where, by about 4.30 p.m., we had all assembled, mostly in one piece. People had been evacuated from around the city and assembled together by the good offices of the American Embassy, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and every remotely official person who was connected with the United States - New Zealand Partnership Forum. Stephen Jacobi, who leads that forum, deserves particular mention for his professionalism and his concern and care for our United States guests. At 12.51 p.m. we had just finished having a briefing at Tait Radio Communications, part of Tait Electronics. We had just been told that we were in one of the safest possible buildings, a round, single-storey building, and so it proved to be. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000312\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227df975cd-93d2-4f55-9bc5-d2790e28e043\u0022\u003EThe earthquake struck with a bang, which I am not used to. Coming from Taranaki I am used to hearing earthquakes before they arrive, or feeling them as little shudders building into a larger one. But this explosion took us all completely by surprise. The ferocity of the shudder, the sideways movement, was truly frightening. Then the power went out and the lights went off and the 10 or so of us who were around that lunch table dived under the table, with glassware and crockery flying and smashing around us. When the power came on, through the back-up system that Tait had, we all went outside. The staff had been evacuated outside. Then the phone calls started and the stories started to come back immediately. In particular, I remember two sentences from a woman who worked for Tait who was standing just a couple of metres away from me. She was obviously phoning in to a loved one in the central city. She was saying: \u201CGosh, that was big, wasn\u2019t it?\u201D, when suddenly her face changed and she started repeating for those of us around her what she was hearing. The two sentences I recall most vividly were: \u201CThe cathedral\u2019s down. There are dead people.\u201D \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000313\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227df975cd-93d2-4f55-9bc5-d2790e28e043\u0022\u003ESuddenly the enormity of it began to strike us. As we evacuated I took a couple of American guests under my wing. They were very shocked by this event, but I took them to the airport, which by that stage had been evacuated. We took refuge in the Sudima Hotel. After a short time the American Embassy got messages through to its delegates, saying: \u201CIf you are near to the Antarctic Centre, go there.\u201D Of course, the Antarctic Centre is a matter of metres away from the Sudima Hotel, out by the airport, so we walked to the Antarctic Centre. That building was not in terribly good nick either\u2014bits of ceiling had fallen in\u2014but it was better than many others. By 8 o\u2019clock that night all of the American guests and many of the New Zealanders present at the United States - New Zealand Partnership Forum had been evacuated by Hercules to Wellington, feeling very lucky to get out so quickly. So to those Defence Force personnel and to the officials who rallied every available service, I pay a tribute. I also pay a tribute to the Christchurch-based members in this House, from all sides, who have been working with their people, alongside their people, assisting them in their grief and in the catastrophic disruption of their lives. Those members have our support, and if there is anything practical we can do\u2014if staying away is the best thing we can do\u2014then they need only to let us know. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000314\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227df975cd-93d2-4f55-9bc5-d2790e28e043\u0022\u003EI will make another comment about the memorial day. I want to reflect on two cultures that are not my own: one is M\u0101ori and the other is Jewish. Both of them have something in common. They both wait a year after an event, after a bereavement. They wait a year, and then they return to the place and unveil a headstone. I cannot help thinking, with all the reverence I can muster for the people of Christchurch, that this memorial day is too soon. A year from now, when people are learning to live with their grief\u2014the grief that they cannot see a way through at the moment\u2014they can return to the place and we can grieve collectively. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000315\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227df975cd-93d2-4f55-9bc5-d2790e28e043\u0022\u003EImmediately after I returned to Wellington I had to go to China for an official visit that had already been scheduled. At every formal meeting I attended in China people began with a tribute to New Zealand and the expression of their condolences for the earthquake victims and the suffering that people were enduring in New Zealand. I in return was able to thank them for that and express our condolences for those Chinese students who perished in the CTV building collapse. In addition, I was able to thank them for President Hu Jintao\u2019s very generous financial contribution of US$500,000 to New Zealand. In addition to that, I thanked them for their immediate dispatching of search and rescue teams to assist us. They know what it is like. I visited the Tangshan earthquake memorial. They have a dignified memorial there to 240,000 people who lost their lives in 1976. They know what it is like. Around the world, regardless of numbers or scale, grief and loss are the same. Kia ora koutou. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022b8383f38-c78c-4e5d-8324-677d91e95c49\u0022 data-id=\u00227494efb6617d4149a838b1eb9ee2bc26\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000316\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b8383f38-c78c-4e5d-8324-677d91e95c49\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00227494efb6617d4149a838b1eb9ee2bc26\u0022\u003EKEITH LOCKE (Green):\u003C/span\u003E I think this debate\u2014it is hard to call it a debate, because everyone is going in the same direction\u2014has shown that we all have a connection with Christchurch. The earthquake was not just a Christchurch event; it was one that has affected just about everyone in New Zealand, and I think that has come out in today\u2019s speeches. Maryan Street\u2019s speech just before was about being in Christchurch, Charles Chauvel\u2019s speech was about relations in Christchurch, and Allan Peachey\u2019s speech was about the time he spent in Christchurch. I think everyone is connected in some way with friends or relations in that city. That is why it is such a difficult and emotional issue for us. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000317\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b8383f38-c78c-4e5d-8324-677d91e95c49\u0022\u003EI spent the first 22 years of my life in Christchurch and have relations there who have suffered in the earthquake\u2014a sister and a sister-in-law, in particular, as well as a brother-in-law and family. There is also physical damage, which is why the debate around heritage and what will be reconstructed is so important. To a significant extent, the identity of the city is related to the buildings and to the built nature of the city. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000318\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b8383f38-c78c-4e5d-8324-677d91e95c49\u0022\u003EThere is also the environment to consider. I was brought up next to the Avon River, in what is now known as the Avon Loop. I went back there a week ago, and the riverbank I used to play on is now much wider as a result of the lateral spread. The river has come up, the river has narrowed, and there are big, metre-wide cracks, etc., and that makes one feel very sad. No doubt we will get over that; it is more the effect on the people that we are most worried about. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000319\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b8383f38-c78c-4e5d-8324-677d91e95c49\u0022\u003EJust to give members a feeling of the effect on people, I thought I would read a piece from a friend of mine, Pam Vickers, who lives on Clifton Hill, next to Sumner. Her experience is very well put: \u201CThe gossip round the water cooler at the office has been exchanged for gossip at the water tanker, as we queue up with our plastic bottles for what we are most short of\u2014water. Who has left town with who? Who is sleeping in a tent? Who is sleeping in the garage? Few people here\u2014along with Lyttelton, the worst affected part of the city\u2014want to sleep in the house, if they can avoid it. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000320\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b8383f38-c78c-4e5d-8324-677d91e95c49\u0022\u003EWater is heavy and I haven\u2019t quite got the knack of balancing it on my head, but I am certainly adept at carrying three very large water bottles\u2014one in each hand and the third in between, supported by both sets of fingertips. Everything looks grey, the colour of the liquefied earth squeezed out of the ground like toothpaste by the earthquake. It has been shovelled into piles by our fantastic student army, but it has dried in the heat and the dust is picked up and blown around by the strong north-westerly winds, covering everything. The fruit on the trees no longer has an autumnal ripeness, but is also the colour of grey. This greyness is punctuated by the odd moment of colourful humour\u2014usually about the way we are getting rid of human waste. Drains and sewers are broken, so gardens are invaluable now. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000321\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b8383f38-c78c-4e5d-8324-677d91e95c49\u0022\u003EAnd the aftershocks keep coming. Someone in England asked me, \u2018Do they feel like little electric shocks?\u2019 No they damn well do not. They are small earthquakes that follow the big one. They throw our stomachs into our throats and in a split second I am taken back to where I was when the big one hit\u2014the cathedral cafe, ground zero for all of the destruction. I felt it coming and screamed to everyone there to get down. The events from there are still too cruel and too raw to talk about. The aftershocks still shake rubble from our homes and have a noise and movement under our feet that confirm there is no such thing as terra firma. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000322\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b8383f38-c78c-4e5d-8324-677d91e95c49\u0022\u003EOur nerves are frayed, our sleep disrupted, our tempers frazzled, and we live on a diet of all-day earthquake news and another tin of cold food \u2026 Thank goodness we had the rehearsal with the 4 September quake, otherwise I don\u2019t think we would be doing as well as we are. Did I really say that! \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000323\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b8383f38-c78c-4e5d-8324-677d91e95c49\u0022\u003EThis one was big, and it was as though we had been hit by an atomic bomb. With our landmarks no longer there it was hard to recognise Sumner or Christchurch in the first days after the earthquake. Is this really our home? Going up our road, coming home from the water tanker, we cross crevices in a domestic car that might challenge an all-terrain vehicle. Road cones, danger tape and yellow paint mark the cracks, humps and road edges where the cliff has fallen away. You need nerves of steel to navigate it all\u2014waiting for another aftershock to drop you into a hole or dislodge a boulder to land on your head. It\u2019s like a war zone. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000324\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b8383f38-c78c-4e5d-8324-677d91e95c49\u0022\u003EWe find ourselves doing strange things. I stand in the middle of a room piled high with debris and pick up a screw. I look at it for a long period wondering \u2018What is this off?\u2019. It is as though in this heap of damaged possessions I will ever find where it belongs. It is all headed for the dustbin. I talk to my neighbour, who says she has spent 10 minutes just looking at a butterfly when she should be tidying up. Life seems unreal and time seems to unravel. We keep telling ourselves time will put this right. With time, the aftershocks will lessen. With time, power and water and sewage will be restored. With time, our roads will be repaired. With time our houses will be rebuilt. With time. But at the moment time goes slowly. Time brings us pain and anguish\u2014and fear that we might not have the strength to get through this. Time brings despair because all that we have built up has gone and our future is in jeopardy.\u201D \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000325\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b8383f38-c78c-4e5d-8324-677d91e95c49\u0022\u003EThat description was from Pam Vickers. Last night her power did come on, but she is still without water and sewerage, as are many people in the city of Christchurch. There is still a lot more to do to help people in the east of Christchurch. Teams are still going door-to-door, helping people. The Green Party has a team going around most days, or every day. Kennedy Graham is in Christchurch leading that work. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000326\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b8383f38-c78c-4e5d-8324-677d91e95c49\u0022\u003EWe have to remember, as we prepare for the memorial service, that the recovery will require a combination of effort: voluntary effort, such as the students and farmers are engaged in along with all kinds of other organisations, including church organisations and community organisations; the official response through civil defence in all its various parts; and all of the citizens of Christchurch, in their own particular way, helping and working together. It will take a while to recover, but we cannot slacken our efforts right now. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022 data-id=\u0022e26478aa45f1472e865e4a5542ec27be\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000327\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022e26478aa45f1472e865e4a5542ec27be\u0022\u003EMICHAEL WOODHOUSE (National):\u003C/span\u003E In my short call on the Canterbury Earthquake Commemoration Day Bill I commend not only the many thousands of staff and volunteers who are working in Christchurch and the surrounding areas, but also the many thousands of people who have opened their hearts and their homes right around the South Island, particularly in my own city of Dunedin. People there have adopted a rather novel approach to providing support by opening at the Dunedin Railway Station the \u201CChristchurch Embassy\u201D. It is probably the first embassy for a city anywhere that I can think of, but it is a terrific initiative that has brought together organisations such as the Citizens Advice Bureaux, the Order of St John\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000328\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022759210daf37e43bc8103491617f3987d\u0022\u003EHon Trevor Mallard\u003C/span\u003E: They used to have one at the Back Bencher.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000329\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b693fb12cd89420d826b2478b77cde00\u0022\u003EMICHAEL WOODHOUSE\u003C/span\u003E: Well, there you go; it was pinched off the Back Bencher, which is always a pioneer. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000330\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003EIt has also given to those of us who were not in Christchurch on 22 February, and who simply cannot imagine what life has been like since then, a small insight into the trauma that was created for those who have been effectively displaced, and who are now being accommodated in our schools, homes, and workplaces. I commend the work that they are doing. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000331\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003EThe Octagon saw around 10,000 people stop for 2 minutes\u2019 silence last week, and if that is a measure of what the memorial will be like, North Hagley Park will be a quite special place next Friday. I do not agree with the member Maryan Street that this commemoration day is too early; I think it is a necessary catharsis, and I certainly support it. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022a40f5af7-f9b0-4b44-9669-9e63be1c3ced\u0022 data-id=\u0022eec1d7900a294d9295b72edf9b9963cb\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000332\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a40f5af7-f9b0-4b44-9669-9e63be1c3ced\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022eec1d7900a294d9295b72edf9b9963cb\u0022\u003EDARIEN FENTON (Labour):\u003C/span\u003E I do not want to change the tone of the debate, at all, because I think the contributions on the Canterbury Earthquake Commemoration Day Bill have been very genuine and heartfelt. It has been very moving to hear the contributions from all sides of the House, and particularly the stories that have been told by people such as my colleague Maryan Street, who was there when the earthquake happened. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000333\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a40f5af7-f9b0-4b44-9669-9e63be1c3ced\u0022\u003EI am absolutely petrified of earthquakes. I am like Lianne Dalziel, who said after the September earthquake that she had always thought the place to be frightened was Wellington. Of course, that is now not the case. I come from a place in the country, Auckland, where we do not think we have earthquakes, but apparently we do. Chris Hipkins showed me yesterday a little gadget he has on his iPhone that records every earthquake in the country, and there are masses of them all over the country. It was amazing to see. I live in Auckland, as I said, and I think I am safe\u2014apart from the volcanoes, of course, but that is another matter. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000334\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a40f5af7-f9b0-4b44-9669-9e63be1c3ced\u0022\u003EAs I said, I commend all of the speakers for their very moving contributions, and I repeat my sympathy for all of those in Christchurch who are suffering because of loss of life, loss of home, loss of jobs, and so on. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000335\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a40f5af7-f9b0-4b44-9669-9e63be1c3ced\u0022\u003EJust in case we do not get to have a very long debate in the Committee stage, I will turn to the bill in this second reading speech, if I may. It is a pretty straightforward bill, and I think the Minister of Labour and the department have done a good job. It is a pretty simple approach. The bill provides for a one-off public holiday on 18 March\u2014that is, next Friday\u2014in the Canterbury region to commemorate the Christchurch earthquake, when there will be a commemoration service at Hagley Park. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000336\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a40f5af7-f9b0-4b44-9669-9e63be1c3ced\u0022\u003EI am just seeking information, because I am not sure of my information. I have already had quite a few texts, calls, and emails\u2014and I know that my colleagues in Christchurch are getting these too\u2014about what the day actually means. What does it mean for workers? What does it mean for business? It is a day that will be treated like any other public holiday, except that it will apply only to Canterbury, which means that employees can be required to work if their agreement says they can be required to work. If employees work on all or part of the day, then they must be paid time and a half and they are entitled to an alternative day off. At the moment that alternative day off has to be agreed; after 1 April if it cannot be agreed the employer can decide when that day will be. Of course, there is a reference to the Education Act, which means that schools will be closed for the day, as well. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000337\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a40f5af7-f9b0-4b44-9669-9e63be1c3ced\u0022\u003EI will mention some of the issues that are coming up; I know that the Minister mentioned them in her first reading speech. For example, businesses are expressing some concern about this bill. I was just talking to my colleague Lianne Dalziel, who is in Bexley, and she expressed concern\u2014as, indeed, have other members in Christchurch. Some shops in Bexley, where she works, have opened today for the first time. It is the first time people have been able to get into their premises, and they are really concerned about having to provide for time and a half or a day off next Friday. I know that other employers are complaining about having to fund a public holiday. It is not that they are against it; it is just that some of them are so much on the margins that they say it could tip them over. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000338\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a40f5af7-f9b0-4b44-9669-9e63be1c3ced\u0022\u003EThere are a whole lot of other issues, as well. Somebody earlier in the discussion referred to the workers who had been transferred into Christchurch to help out, and who have now been transferred out\u2014people who are living and working in Timaru, for example, or people who have been transferred to other parts of the country by their employers, who have other places in New Zealand where they can work. Will they be entitled to a public holiday? You know, there are issues, and there will be questions about those people that will need to be addressed. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000339\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a40f5af7-f9b0-4b44-9669-9e63be1c3ced\u0022\u003EOf course, there are some real difficulties concerning other questions that are coming up. Businesses are asking whether they are supposed to close, and I think the Minister needs to make that clear. Because it is a commemoration day, some businesses do not understand that they do not have to close. They have to let their staff off on pay, or pay them time and a half. Because it is a commemoration day it feels something like Anzac Day, when there is no trading. But there is trading, under this bill. I think that needs to be made clear. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000340\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a40f5af7-f9b0-4b44-9669-9e63be1c3ced\u0022\u003EAnother question that has come up is about the situation if staff want to only go to the commemoration service and do not want to take the day off. What are they entitled to? How does that work? A very practical question came, once again, from Lianne Dalziel, who is dealing in Bexley with constituents who still do not have access to Portaloos or chemical toilets. She asks where the Portaloos will come from if thousands of people pour into Hagley Park. I am not being facetious here; that is a very practical question that I think needs to be given some consideration. That is why many members on our side of the House are saying that it is just too soon, and we are not sure whether these practical considerations have been thought through. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000341\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a40f5af7-f9b0-4b44-9669-9e63be1c3ced\u0022\u003EThen we have all the workers who, of course, do not have jobs. I mentioned in my previous speech that millions of dollars have been paid out to employers to cover staff and individual employees. But another category of employees cannot even get to their jobs, because of their personal situations\u2014for example, they have no toilets or showers, no transport, or their children are off school. Their employers are saying that their jobs are available, and because their jobs are available they are not entitled to any subsidies. Those people are at home without any income. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000342\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a40f5af7-f9b0-4b44-9669-9e63be1c3ced\u0022\u003EThen there is a whole other category of workers who are in no man\u2019s land: their workplaces are still up and running, but orders have reduced by 80 percent. So the laying off of staff has begun, but they are not entitled to a subsidy situation. There are other stories, as well, that I think will need some answers. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000343\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a40f5af7-f9b0-4b44-9669-9e63be1c3ced\u0022\u003EThe other thing I will raise for the Minister\u2014it may not be the time; it is not related so much to this bill\u2014is that there are workers who are employed by multinational companies, international companies, which I understand are not eligible for earthquake cover. Hundreds of cleaners in the central business district, for example, are getting no support at all at the moment. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000344\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a40f5af7-f9b0-4b44-9669-9e63be1c3ced\u0022\u003EThere are issues but, as we have said all along, Labour will support this bill. We support the people of Christchurch, and we will join in coming together to grieve next Friday.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022 data-id=\u00222334fb334ce14155af84eed4fdcae06e\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000345\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00222334fb334ce14155af84eed4fdcae06e\u0022\u003ENIKKI KAYE (National\u2014Auckland Central):\u003C/span\u003E I will start by paying tribute to the New Zealand men, women, and children who lost their lives on 22 February. I also pay tribute to the overseas citizens who lost their lives. I think many of us would acknowledge that the earthquake has been a pretty horrific tragedy for this country, and many New Zealanders might not have lost someone but will know of someone who has been lost. But in such a time of tragedy we have also seen some extraordinary New Zealanders step up. To mention just a few, I know that so many New Zealanders around the country have offered anything from a bed to some linen and some food. I acknowledge all of those New Zealanders who have stepped up. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000346\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022\u003EWe have also seen some extraordinary leadership come through. The Student Volunteer Army has captured the respect of the nation. I think those students have also captured the pride of the nation. One of the things about this crisis is that sometimes it takes an extraordinary crisis to change the values of a nation. That is one of the positive things that could come from this. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000347\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022\u003EEverybody has a story. A lady walked into my office recently who had not known that her husband was travelling to Christchurch on the day of the earthquake. He was actually working in the Pyne Gould building. Fortunately for her\u2014and for him\u2014he had popped out for a coffee. So that day he lived, but he was one of the lucky ones. Her story is not unique; many people around New Zealand are sharing those stories, and I think that is a really important part of the process. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000348\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022\u003EFinally, I pay tribute to the New Zealand armed forces. I had the opportunity, with our Minister of Defence, to be on board HMNZS Canterbury and to see the extraordinary support that our New Zealand armed forces were giving to the people of Canterbury. It really made me reflect, as I hope many other members of Parliament will do, on the huge contribution that our armed forces are making in Canterbury at this time. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000349\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022\u003EI am very pleased to support the Canterbury Earthquake Commemoration Day Bill. I acknowledge that even though there has been an extraordinary tragedy, so many New Zealanders around the country are stepping up in every possible way, and that is making a huge difference to the lives of so many New Zealanders, particularly the people of Canterbury.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002259e9efe2-6dea-4eeb-869a-ef5b3e48a5b5\u0022 data-id=\u00222723d4158fc74636a8ee00d3a6f62087\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000350\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002259e9efe2-6dea-4eeb-869a-ef5b3e48a5b5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00222723d4158fc74636a8ee00d3a6f62087\u0022\u003ECHARLES CHAUVEL (Labour):\u003C/span\u003E I begin my short contribution in the second reading debate of the Canterbury Earthquake Commemoration Day Bill by acknowledging the Minister of Labour for addressing in her second reading speech some potential concerns I raised in my first reading speech. I accept that the choice of timing is never easy, and that there are always pros and cons. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000351\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002259e9efe2-6dea-4eeb-869a-ef5b3e48a5b5\u0022\u003EI agree with Trevor Mallard that a decision has been settled on, and the course of action, which is the commemoration on 18 March, is now clear. It does leave a further decision, which is what opportunity there will be at a later date for the entire nation to have an opportunity to mourn, to commemorate, and to celebrate what we know will be the recovery of Canterbury. Maybe the idea advanced by Maryan Street about an unveiling in a year\u2019s time from the anniversary of the earthquake is an appropriate thing to consider. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000352\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002259e9efe2-6dea-4eeb-869a-ef5b3e48a5b5\u0022\u003EI mentioned in my initial contribution the services that were held around the nation on the first day of this month. I think they reveal a real need amongst New Zealanders outside Canterbury to participate in that process. I will say no more on the issue other than to respectfully urge the Minister and her colleagues to consider that need, because I do think it is real. As I said, Labour accepts the decision with regard to the timing and the regional nature of the holiday we are discussing now. But I think it is very important that we acknowledge that wider need, and acknowledge the importance of making sure everybody has an opportunity to, as I said, engage in that three-stage process: mourn those whom we have lost, commemorate the event, then look forward to the future. I hope looking forward to the future is something we can all begin to focus on. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000353\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002259e9efe2-6dea-4eeb-869a-ef5b3e48a5b5\u0022\u003EI really encourage Ministers and members of the Government to think about two things as we move forward. One is the need for compassion. We have heard all sorts of comments in the last couple of weeks about looters. Many would say fair enough; that sort of behaviour is terrible. But let us not forget that there is other behaviour going on such as profiteering, price gouging, and excessive renting. We need to think about the people who are affected by that sort of behaviour. As far as I am concerned it is every bit as bad as looting. We may need to think about taking powers, as has been done in the United States in post-emergency situations, that provide some ability in the short term to control that sort of activity. We may need to do that so that people, particularly those at the bottom and in the middle, who need to rent commercial premises or houses and need to buy goods and services are not affected by the rawness of the rules of supply and demand. That is the first hope I express going forward. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000354\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002259e9efe2-6dea-4eeb-869a-ef5b3e48a5b5\u0022\u003EThe second one is to urge the Government to be far-sighted. There is a huge opportunity here for the people of Christchurch and Canterbury when it comes to rebuilding what has been lost. Would it not be fantastic to see a true eco-city, with businesses and houses built to the highest energy-efficiency standards, a world-class transport system, and clever town planning, while preserving the beautiful heritage buildings wherever possible? We should concentrate on the intellectual and entrepreneurial opportunities that the city has going forward, such as the wonderful cleantech sector; the university, which is a real jewel in the crown; the tourism businesses that contribute so many jobs; and the other educational and training institutions. There is a huge opportunity to get people upskilled and to address all the training needs that we know people have, so that they can go forward and contribute to the rebuilding of the city. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000355\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002259e9efe2-6dea-4eeb-869a-ef5b3e48a5b5\u0022\u003EIt would be fantastic if, rather than looking inward and being preoccupied with the awful past we have all spoken about today, we were able to look forward with pride and have a think about the opportunities that that sort of visionary rebuild would guarantee to that magnificent city in the South Island. With those words I commend the bill to the House in the second reading.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022ffff330f-1757-41d6-9973-25244f0fdada\u0022 data-id=\u00224b7c004f2c4c4d01aaa68cc7a3938dd2\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000356\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ffff330f-1757-41d6-9973-25244f0fdada\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00224b7c004f2c4c4d01aaa68cc7a3938dd2\u0022\u003ECOLIN KING (National\u2014Kaik\u014Dura):\u003C/span\u003E One cannot avoid the tragedy of what happened in Christchurch on 22 February 2011 at 12.51 p.m. We are now at the second reading stage of the Canterbury Earthquake Commemoration Day Bill, and I think it is quite appropriate that the interpretation clause makes specific reference to the Christchurch Show Day. Notwithstanding all the tragedy, loss, grief, and dislocation that have happened in that community, that in itself conjures up the thought of the country and the town coming together and celebrating the unity that we have all grown to have amazing confidence in. When I was a child the highest structure in Christchurch was the cathedral, and on the odd day when one was up on the Port Hills and looked across at a canopy of fog, the only thing sticking out would be the cathedral. It will take a lot of work for us to ensure that our children and our grandchildren have a similar view to us as children of Christchurch as a city of excitement and flair and colour. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000357\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ffff330f-1757-41d6-9973-25244f0fdada\u0022\u003EI will move on to one aspect of the event in North Canterbury. It is interesting that a lot of families still send their children to the various colleges of eminence in Christchurch, and it is pleasing to see that the community of North Canterbury, especially the area schools\u2014and I will mention them; they are Amuri Area School, Hurunui College, and Cheviot Area School\u2014were able to open their doors for whatever time will be necessary to children who have been displaced from those colleges. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000358\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ffff330f-1757-41d6-9973-25244f0fdada\u0022\u003EWe look forward to 18 March, when we will come together to support one another and to look toward a brighter future. I am aware that the speakers that have gone before have very eloquently articulated the heartfelt emotion of it all. Leaving it at that, I commend this bill to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000359\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ffff330f-1757-41d6-9973-25244f0fdada\u0022\u003EBill read a second time.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000360\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubproceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u00225285294b53ea44b3a7c7be93f23f03d0\u0022\u003EProcedure\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00221368ba6c-25be-40f6-a2a0-8f81e1f78b79\u0022 data-id=\u00229b5f2ac9de4a4deeb1f3349be1115528\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000361\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221368ba6c-25be-40f6-a2a0-8f81e1f78b79\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00229b5f2ac9de4a4deeb1f3349be1115528\u0022\u003ECHRIS TREMAIN (Senior Whip\u2014National):\u003C/span\u003E I seek leave of the House to go to the third reading of the Canterbury Earthquake Commemoration Day Bill forthwith and to forgo the Committee stage.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000362\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f4112fc5-c53f-4aa9-bf6d-5a05ce6252cf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ea528ac2fd8d485cb8ab330ace3c76f7\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Eric Roy)\u003C/span\u003E: Leave is sought for that purpose. Is there anyone opposed to that course of action? It appears not. Leave is granted. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000363\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubproceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u0022729d08e4a929474da2a04040a079fd06\u0022\u003EThird Reading\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022136da8c4-afc7-483e-a39c-c66812f71774\u0022 data-id=\u0022e6e0f3c8721046d78b0d7a65f82a8c2b\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000364\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022136da8c4-afc7-483e-a39c-c66812f71774\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022e6e0f3c8721046d78b0d7a65f82a8c2b\u0022\u003EHon KATE WILKINSON (Minister of Labour):\u003C/span\u003E I move, That the Canterbury Earthquake Commemoration Day Bill be now read a third time. As we have heard from other speakers in the House today, the Christchurch earthquake will shape the identity of the Canterbury region for many years to come, and I appreciate the positive contributions of other speakers so far. I think there is a wonderful opportunity for Canterbury to rebuild. After hearing the contribution from some of the Wellington speakers, I have to say that if the Crusaders get too good the Hurricanes might not be able to beat them in the near future, but we certainly appreciate the gesture. I also appreciate that there was mutual agreement that the game that was due to be played be a draw. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000365\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022136da8c4-afc7-483e-a39c-c66812f71774\u0022\u003EOn a more serious note, this bill provides for Friday, 18 March to be the day of commemoration to mark the tragedy that we have all suffered and the devastating consequences that it has brought. The death toll of this day is yet to be officially confirmed, but we know that some 200 families may have lost a loved one. Those of us from Canterbury all have a link to someone who has died, whether it is a personal friend, a colleague, or a passing acquaintance whom we happened to meet. In some respects, though, the entire nation is grieving. The grief is, of course, most real for the people of Canterbury, but, none the less, I believe that the entire nation is grieving, and I certainly thank people for that. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000366\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022136da8c4-afc7-483e-a39c-c66812f71774\u0022\u003ETens of thousands of people have damaged homes and property. Many of those need to be rebuilt entirely. The entire region is exhausted by the continuing aftershocks. Our nerves are always on edge, and it is important that the region is provided with an opportunity to come together to grieve as a community. The memorial to take place next Friday will be a day of mourning. It will be a difficult day for many of us, but I believe that it is crucial. I know that there are some genuine concerns about the cost to some businesses, and this is the case for all public holidays. But sometimes in the context of an extraordinary tragedy we need to look past these short-term costs and focus on what we believe will help the people of Canterbury as a whole at this time. I believe that allowing this day to be observed as a public holiday is the best way to ensure that all Cantabrians have the opportunity to attend the memorial at Hagley Park, to take a step back from the carnage for a moment, and to grieve. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000367\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022136da8c4-afc7-483e-a39c-c66812f71774\u0022\u003EI once again thank the members of this House for the concern, the compassion, and the support for Canterbury and for Christchurch during these tragic times. I again commend the bill to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022 data-id=\u002258fb5513e23a4db3a741d804f3312a75\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000368\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002258fb5513e23a4db3a741d804f3312a75\u0022\u003EHon TREVOR MALLARD (Labour\u2014Hutt South):\u003C/span\u003E The Opposition parties will, of course, be supporting the third reading of the Canterbury Earthquake Commemoration Day Bill.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000369\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003EI will start off by doing something that maybe I should have done earlier, and that is to acknowledge and thank the Canterbury MPs, and in particular the Christchurch MPs, for the work they are doing there. I have been lucky enough to hear from their\u2014I was going to say \u201Cemissary\u201D, but Mr Cosgrove is not normally regarded as having diplomatic status. He has come out of Canterbury a couple of times when the others have not in order to brief colleagues on the situation. It has become clear that an enormous amount of work is going on there, even though the personal circumstances of the MPs are not a lot different from the personal circumstances of many of those who have been affected. We know of colleagues sleeping in tents in the backyard. We know that all of them are doing enormous work, and that a couple of them have lost their houses. It is a truly awful situation, but, like Kiwis do, they are putting their all into it. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000370\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003EI acknowledge that in a way this tragedy is developing a sense of community, and it is a community that occurs within the city and within the country, and that has been exemplified by this debate here today. Like all families and all communities, some of us might have done things in a slightly different way, but now that we know that a decision has been made for this approach to be taken, we will get in behind it and make sure that the commemoration is the best that it can possibly be.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000371\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003EOne of the things I am hoping is that out of this tragedy, across the country and in this Parliament\u2014I am an optimist, but I am not unrealistic; we cannot be like this all the time\u2014we will learn that there are strengths all around the House, and that the more often that we can avail ourselves of those strengths, the bigger the contribution that Parliament can make to the country. Having said that, I want to single out\u2014and there are always dangers in doing this\u2014both the Minister for Canterbury Earthquake Recovery and Mr Flavell for their contributions, and, but not quite to the same extent, Mr Locke as well. Things have been said from a Christchurch perspective by both the Minister and Mr Locke that are very special, and Mr Flavell is someone who I think exemplifies New Zealand\u2019s understanding of death and has an ability to express it in a way that many of us would love to be able to do. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000372\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003EI will share with the House the fact that I spent a couple of minutes, 10 minutes ago, with the senior Government whip and the Minister. I think we came to the conclusion that in a legal sense this legislation is unnecessary. The regulation-making powers that we granted to the Government under the Act passed last year following the September earthquake gave it the ability to create this day. But we came to the conclusion together that we as a Parliament are pleased that the powers that sat there are not being used, and that there is an opportunity for members to come together as a Parliament to be supportive and to indicate again the fact that we care deeply for the people of Christchurch and the people internationally who have lost people, for the people, young and old, who do not know where they are going to live over the next few months and over the next few years, and for the people who have been living, and are living, in what are currently unacceptable circumstances. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000373\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003EWhat we have done is to resolve to do together what we can to make the best of this tragedy, to learn from it, but, most of all, to put on the record our commitment to make sure that Canterbury is strong again, not only in the Crusaders sense but as an important counterbalance to Auckland in a way that is important to our society and to our economy. As we all know, although I love Dunedin, Canterbury is effectively the capital of the South Island, and for New Zealand to be strong it must be strong too.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022 data-id=\u002271a7a6b49b5748f0bd2ac43a764041b4\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000374\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002271a7a6b49b5748f0bd2ac43a764041b4\u0022\u003EHon HEKIA PARATA (Minister for Ethnic Affairs):\u003C/span\u003E T\u0113n\u0101 koe e te Mana Whakaw\u0101, otira, ki a t\u0101tou o te Whare P\u0101remata. T\u0113nei te poroporoaki ki ng\u0101 t\u0101ngata, ki ng\u0101 wh\u0101nau o \u014Ctautahi, o t\u0101w\u0101hi hoki. E ai ki t\u0113tahi o ng\u0101 r\u0101rangi i roto i te haka taparahi, ar\u0101, ko t\u0113nei: \u201CKo R\u016Baumoko e ngunguru nei, au, au, au\u0113 h\u0101!\u201D. I runga an\u014D i t\u0113r\u0101 k\u014Drero, kei te m\u014Dhio t\u0101tou ka rongo tonu t\u0101tou katoa i te mamae o ng\u0101 t\u0101ngata o t\u0113r\u0101 w\u0101hi o \u014Ctautahi. N\u0101 reira, he poroporoaki poto noa iho i t\u0113nei w\u0101 ki a r\u0101tou kua hipa atu i te p\u014D, haere, haere, haere atu r\u0101. Hoki mai ki a t\u0101tou te hunga ora, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou, t\u0113n\u0101 koutou katoa.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000375\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003E[Greetings to you, Mr Assistant Speaker, and indeed to us of the House. This farewell tribute is to the people and families of Christchurch, and to those from overseas, as well. In the ceremonial haka, there is a line that goes like this: \u201CIt is I, R\u016Baumoko, the earthquake god, rumbling here; take care, look out, be warned!\u201D. On the basis of that statement, we know that we will all continue to experience the pain of the people of that place, Christchurch. So this brief farewell gesture at this moment to those who have passed on into the void: farewell, depart, and journey on. I come back to us, the living: greetings to you, greetings to you, and greetings to you all.]  \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000376\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003EI join with every member of this House and with all New Zealanders in expressing our sadness for those families here in Aotearoa New Zealand who have lost loved ones, and those families who face the tragedy of having either to come to New Zealand or to wait in their home countries to receive back members of their families. We acknowledge that the pain that has been experienced by everyone will take much longer to go away than the days we have experienced so far, and, indeed, will last beyond the commemorative day next Friday that the Canterbury Earthquake Commemoration Day Bill puts in place. But part of the process is that we have the opportunity to come together formally as a nation to recognise the grief, sadness, and loss in Canterbury, and to begin the healing that will be part of the restoration and recovery of Christchurch and the strengthening of communities in and around Canterbury, Te Wai Pounamu, and New Zealand. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000377\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003EI went to Christchurch last week and had the opportunity to visit ethnic communities, who were responding with the same resilience that has characterised the entire response of Cantabrians to this tragedy. Those communities where English is not the first language were coping with their own particular and special challenges. In situations of stress, understanding the different cultural cues of a different culture provides another layer of complexity to the way that those communities can respond. Nevertheless, they were binding together, sharing resources amongst and between themselves, taking succour in their own cultural and religious practices, and gaining access to the services that are available to all New Zealanders. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000378\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003EI had the opportunity also to visit the women\u2019s refuges and to see again the strong work that that group of women does both in normal times and in abnormal times. They responded, as did everyone else, to the needs of their particular communities, and they will continue to require support. One of the by-products of stress is sometimes violence towards those closest to us. In recognising that that happens it is important to acknowledge that it is no more acceptable in times of tragedy than it is at any other time. We must continue to provide support to organisations like Women\u2019s Refuge to meet the demands of the situation. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000379\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003EI also had the opportunity to visit Orion, the company responsible for getting electricity back up throughout Christchurch. Its own building was rendered uninhabitable by the earthquake. It operated from a marquee under an oak tree, and subsequently in prefabricated buildings that had been trucked in to allow it to work to get the electricity network up and going again. I pay tribute to those workers; as has been remarked on by other speakers, many, many of the workers, whoever they were\u2014whether working on restoring power lines or water, or for the Red Cross or the Salvation Army\u2014were themselves directly affected by the earthquake. Despite that, they went out and provided the work that was needed to begin the restoration and recovery of Christchurch.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000380\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003EFinally, I mention the volunteers. They have been an example to all of us of how well New Zealanders respond to the needs of their neighbours and to the needs of communities. Volunteers who live close to Christchurch and others who have travelled from other parts of New Zealand have gone there to help in this time of need. It is really important that we maintain the spirit of Kiwi voluntarism. It is important that we acknowledge the contribution that has been made by those volunteers, and that will continue to be made, and it is important that we recognise that there will be an ongoing need for volunteers in the weeks and months ahead of us. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000381\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003EI join with the rest of this House in supporting the passage of this bill. Although it may not be legally necessary, it gives us the opportunity to come together as a parliamentary community to recognise and respect the need for us as a nation to stand, as our Prime Minister has said, shoulder to shoulder with the people of Canterbury. I commend this bill to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022b8383f38-c78c-4e5d-8324-677d91e95c49\u0022 data-id=\u0022fa4ce9300c814e8e8c18c81614deed14\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000382\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b8383f38-c78c-4e5d-8324-677d91e95c49\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022fa4ce9300c814e8e8c18c81614deed14\u0022\u003EKEITH LOCKE (Green):\u003C/span\u003E The Green Party fully supports the Canterbury Earthquake Commemoration Day Bill. I would like to comment on Trevor Mallard\u2019s view that perhaps this bill was not necessary and perhaps the provision of a public holiday could have been implemented under the Canterbury Earthquake Response and Recovery Act, which gives very significant powers to the Government to override most bits of existing legislation. I think it is good that we are passing this bill rather than using those executive powers, because those powers have been under some criticism in the community and in the legal fraternity. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000383\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b8383f38-c78c-4e5d-8324-677d91e95c49\u0022\u003EThere is a fear that the Government, if it chooses, could use those powers in a way that is not appropriate. That little fear popped up in some of the community debate about Gerry Brownlee\u2019s comments on heritage buildings, whether or not those comments were rightly interpreted. I think there is a fear, despite the crisis, of giving too much power to the Government as opposed to Parliament. So it is good that we are debating this bill and will pass it today. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000384\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b8383f38-c78c-4e5d-8324-677d91e95c49\u0022\u003EThe cooperative spirit involved in developing legislation, having a debate, and working together across parties is the sort of cooperative spirit that is superior to the Government just going its own way. It reflects the cooperative spirit that has been generated so well amongst the people of Christchurch, and, more broadly, across the whole of New Zealand. Other speakers have mentioned the international response. The response from Australia and from many other countries has been fantastic. It will be a challenge for this Parliament and for the people of New Zealand to try to keep hold of the best of that cooperative spirit of helping each other, of neighbours helping neighbours, and all the sorts of things that have been generated around this tragedy. We want to hold on to that as much as possible.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000385\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b8383f38-c78c-4e5d-8324-677d91e95c49\u0022\u003EIt is also important to recognise\u2014and sometimes if we are outside Christchurch we do not quite recognise it fully\u2014that there are three other areas where the solutions are much further off. We are seeing more zones open up in the central business district and the four avenues area, and we are seeing the power going back on for most people. I pay tribute to Orion for what its staff have done. At least from the outside it looks like a fantastic effort. They have gone on, day after day, working for long hours, and they have used very creative solutions to get the power on to just about all areas. A few areas still do not have power, and those people are still suffering. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000386\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b8383f38-c78c-4e5d-8324-677d91e95c49\u0022\u003EBut as I said, there are three other three other areas where solutions are much further off. One is the area of water and sewerage. The Bromley sewage treatment plant is stuffed. Christchurch relies on that to a significant extent, so processing sewage is a big problem. There are water-quality problems throughout the city, not only in the affected east. Those problems will not be resolved very quickly, so we have to be very supportive and put in alternative facilities there\u2014Portaloos and everything else\u2014and also make sure that they are cleaned out. A huge area is affected, and even with the Portaloos the situation is not very nice for the people concerned. So that will be a big area of concern. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000387\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b8383f38-c78c-4e5d-8324-677d91e95c49\u0022\u003EThe other area where there is a bit of testiness is in relation to the speed at which the fix-up will take place\u2014that is, people fixing up their houses. Of course, there is the whole question of replacing houses and which houses cannot be replaced. That is a very difficult problem for many people, but for people across the eastern part of Christchurch most buildings have some fix-up required. Getting the insurance, getting the tradespeople\u2014all of that stuff\u2014will take a long time, and we have to be very supportive wherever we can. Parliament and the Government have to support creative solutions. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000388\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b8383f38-c78c-4e5d-8324-677d91e95c49\u0022\u003ESometimes tradespeople do not get on the job unless they are guaranteed payment. There is debate at the moment between the Earthquake Commission, tradespeople and homeowners about who is paying, how quickly, and all the rest of it. We want to do what we can to make sure all of that is resolved as smoothly as possible. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000389\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b8383f38-c78c-4e5d-8324-677d91e95c49\u0022\u003EThe third problem that requires a lot of support\u2014counselling as well as financial support\u2014is the whole question of people who do not know how they will survive financially. I have struck that question all over the place with friends and relations. They have perhaps rented out a flat and their tenants have disappeared, their flat is damaged, their home is damaged, their business is damaged, or they are well behind as a result of their business being closed for a few weeks. There are piles and piles of people who have financial problems, and who do not quite see their way out of them. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000390\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b8383f38-c78c-4e5d-8324-677d91e95c49\u0022\u003EThe Government is, of course, providing interim grants and things like that, which are benefiting a lot of people, and the Red Cross is too, but there is a lot of work to be done for quite a long period to assist people in that area. I think we have a considerable role to play in making sure the mechanisms are there and in supporting the volunteer efforts. Often those efforts have happened because of the initiative of the organisations and the people concerned, but I think the Government has a responsibility to foster and support those volunteer initiatives. They are a part of the cooperation ethic that has arisen in this crisis. They are usually, cost-effective solutions, as well. Although volunteer efforts require a certain resource, they achieve a lot, as well.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000391\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b8383f38-c78c-4e5d-8324-677d91e95c49\u0022\u003EWith those few comments, the Green Party supports this bill.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022 data-id=\u0022c50e1b1927544fbd9a5d9393a113184c\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000392\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022c50e1b1927544fbd9a5d9393a113184c\u0022\u003ETE URUROA FLAVELL (M\u0101ori Party\u2014Waiariki):\u003C/span\u003E Kia ora, Mr Assistant Speaker. Kua k\u014Drerohia te \u0101huatanga o te titiro o te Ao M\u0101ori ki t\u0113nei parekura nui n\u014D reira waiho t\u0113r\u0101 ki reira. Hoi an\u014D ko t\u0101ku ko te k\u012B atu, ar\u0101 an\u014D t\u0113tahi tangata, n\u014D Waikato te tangata nei, ko Tetaki Tair\u0101kena t\u014Dna ingoa. I whakanuia tana r\u0101 wh\u0101nau e 60 in\u0101 tata nei. Ki te nuinga, ko Wally k\u0113 te ingoa, ki taku m\u014Dhio ko ia t\u0113tahi kaiako m\u014D te reo M\u0101ori m\u014D ng\u0101 tau e 25. He nanakia te tangata nei m\u014D te purei i te rakuraku, te k\u012Bt\u0101, ka mutu, ki te waiata i ng\u0101 waiata ngahau i roto i t\u0113tahi p\u0113ne. E ai ki ng\u0101 k\u014Drero i te taha o te tangata nei a Steve Apirana. \u0100 te R\u0101tapu e t\u016B mai nei, ko ia t\u0113r\u0101 ka takoto i t\u014Dna marae i Tauwhare, he marae t\u0113nei tata ki Morrinsville, \u0101, ko ia t\u0113tahi o ng\u0101 aitu\u0101 ka nehua \u0101 k\u014D ake nei. N\u014D reira ko te kaupapa nui, \u0101e, me whakanui ko te hunga kua ngaro i te tirohanga kanohi. Hoi an\u014D, kore taea te karo i t\u0113r\u0101 \u0101huatanga. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000393\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EHe hararei te r\u0101 kei mua i te aroaro? E, k\u014D t\u0101ku e k\u012B nei, e k\u0101o. Ehara i te hararei. Ko te hararei he w\u0101 whakat\u0101, he w\u0101 okioki, he w\u0101 ki te mahi i ng\u0101 mahi i tua atu o te mahi o te w\u0101. He hararei t\u0113nei? Karekau. He w\u0101 kia tuku i ng\u0101 whakaaro ki te hunga e noho pani nei, ka mutu, ki te tautoko i te hunga e tangi tonu ana, kia tuku i ng\u0101 whakaaro ki te hunga kua ngaro. Me t\u016B pokohiwi ki te pokohiwi ki te taha o te hunga e noho mai r\u0101 ki reira, P\u0101keh\u0101 mai, M\u0101ori mai, te hunga n\u014D t\u0101w\u0101hi mai, manene mai, koi n\u0101 te mahi nui \u0101 ng\u0101 r\u0101 kei mua i te aroaro. N\u014D reira m\u014D te kaupapa, kore taea te whakah\u0113. Whakaw\u0101teahia mai he r\u0101, me k\u012B, m\u014D t\u0113r\u0101 o ng\u0101 takiw\u0101. Ko t\u0101ku noa ake ko te k\u012B, \u0101e, kai te tautoko ake te P\u0101ti M\u0101ori i t\u0113nei o ng\u0101 \u0101huatanga. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000394\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EKo t\u0101ku kia whai w\u0101hi t\u0101tou ki te mihi ki te hunga, ng\u0101 ringa raup\u0101, ng\u0101 kai\u0101whina, ng\u0101 mea whakapau werawera m\u014D t\u0113r\u0101 o ng\u0101 hapori, otir\u0101, m\u014D te motu; kaua o roto Aotearoa nei engari, m\u014D te hunga i hara mai i t\u0101wahi an\u014D hoki. Ko ng\u0101 mea o Hapanihi, te hunga o Ahitereiria, ng\u0101 pirihimana i hara mai i Ahitereia ki te tautoko. Ng\u0101 mea o roto o Amerika i hara mai i tawhiti kia eke mai ki konei, tautoko mai ai i a t\u0101tou. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000395\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EKo t\u0101ku he mihi ki te hunga ope t\u016Bao, ar\u0101, te voluntary army. Me mihi nui ki a r\u0101tou ka tika, ng\u0101 w\u0101tene M\u0101ori o te motu, Salvation Army, te R\u014Dp\u016B H\u0101pai R\u016B Whenua i Rangiora, Student Volunteer Army, Farmy Army, Red Cross, me ng\u0101 marae o te motu. I whakaw\u0101tea mai ng\u0101 marae o te motu i \u014D r\u0101tou k\u016Baha ki te hunga i noho raruraru nei, ar\u0101, kai raro iho nei, kei Pipitea t\u0113tahi i whakatuwhera nei i ng\u0101 k\u016Baha o t\u014D r\u0101tou marae. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000396\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EEngari, me p\u0113nei rawa te mihi nui, me k\u012B, ki a Ng\u0101i Tahu. Ko Ng\u0101i Tahu t\u0113r\u0101 e kaha tonu nei ki te h\u0101pai, ki te \u0101whina, ki te noho hai pou, hai tuar\u0101 m\u014D te hunga e rongo nei i te ngau o mamae, P\u0101keh\u0101 mai, M\u0101ori mai. Kai Wigram k\u0113 r\u0101tou i t\u0113nei w\u0101 tonu nei, kai a r\u0101tou te nama waea hai \u0101whina i te hunga e kimi k\u014Drero nei, e kimi \u0101whina nei mai i ng\u0101 moutere o Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa, me \u0113tahi atu. N\u014D reira, ka nui te mihi ki a r\u0101tou me ng\u0101 p\u016Btea ka tukuna ki te kai, ki te \u0101whina. N\u014D r\u0101tou te whakaaro nui ki te h\u0101pai, me k\u012B, i ng\u0101 mea e noho mai ra r\u0101 i Te Wai Pounamu. Ng\u0101 Hau E Wh\u0101 Marae, ko ia t\u0113tahi kua whakatuwhera nei i t\u014Dna k\u016Baha, me k\u012B, ki Te Manat\u016B Whakahiato Ora, ka mutu, kua noho t\u0113r\u0101 hei w\u0101hi h\u0101pai i te whakaoranga o te tangata. Me mihi r\u0101 ki Te Puni K\u014Dkiri me ng\u0101 non-governmental organisations, ng\u0101 r\u014Dp\u016B \u0101whina K\u0101wanatanga. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000397\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EN\u0101 reira, ko taku ko te mihi ki ng\u0101 iwi katoa o te motu i roto i a au, an\u0101, kua whakatuwherahia ng\u0101 kura kaupapa M\u0101ori i te k\u016Baha ki ng\u0101 tamariki o roto o Ng\u0101i Tahu, kia haere ki roto i a au o Te Arawa. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000398\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EHai kupu k\u014Drero whakamutunga m\u0101ku, i te whakaaro ake au m\u014D t\u0113tahi aitu\u0101 nui i roto i a au, an\u0101 ko te h\u016B o Tarawera i te tau 1890. I t\u0113r\u0101 w\u0101, e ai k\u012B ng\u0101 k\u014Drero, e 150 o Ng\u0101ti Rangitihi-T\u016Bhourangi i mate. N\u0101, i whakaw\u0101tea mai a Te Arawa i ng\u0101 k\u0101kahu, i ng\u0101 whenua, i ng\u0101 kai ki te hunga m\u014Drehu, an\u0101, kei reira tonu t\u0113r\u0101 here ki roto o te Whakarewarewa ko Ng\u0101ti W\u0101hiao, ki Ng\u0101puna ko Ng\u0101ti Hurunga, ki Waitangi ko Tapuika, ki Matat\u0101 ko Ng\u0101ti Rangitihi, an\u0101, kei reira ng\u0101 uri i t\u0113nei w\u0101, n\u0101 te whakaaro nui o ng\u0101 w\u0101hi nei o roto i a au o Te Arawa ki te hunga i raruraru i t\u0113r\u0101 o ng\u0101 r\u016B nui. Kai te p\u0113r\u0101 an\u014D hoki i t\u0113nei w\u0101 tonu nei, kua whakatuwherahia te ng\u0101kau ki te \u0101whina, ki te tautoko i te hunga kua parekuratia n\u0101 runga i te \u0101huatanga o te r\u016B nei. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000399\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EMe mihi ki a Ng\u0101ti Porou, me k\u012B, ng\u0101 whanaunga o te H\u014Dnore Hekia Parata, ki te reo irirangi i kohi moni ki te \u0101whina, ki te Pouaka Whakaata M\u0101ori m\u014D Hyundai CODE i tuku i a Glen Osborne r\u0101ua ko Reuben Wiki ki te waiata, ahakoa koretake r\u0101ua ki te waiata, te k\u014Dhanga reo o t\u0113nei takiw\u0101, Te K\u014Dhanga Reo o Ng\u0101 Mokopuna, me Te K\u014Dhanga Reo o Te Kaahui, me k\u012B, i mahi i te kapa haka i Lambton Quay i nanahi nei ki taku m\u014Dhio, ki ng\u0101 n\u0113hi o roto i a au o Te Arawa, a Waikato-Tainui i tuku i w\u0101 r\u0101tou kaihanga whare ki t\u0113r\u0101 takiw\u0101, me t\u0113tahi tangata t\u0113r\u0101 pea k\u0101ore an\u014D koe kia rongo m\u014D te tangata nei Mr Assistant Speaker, a Henare O\u2019Keefe. N\u014D roto o Heretaunga t\u0113nei tangata. Ko t\u0101na mahi he heri i \u0101na m\u012Bhini tunu kai. Koi n\u0101 te ingoa o tana kaupapa Tunutunu. Kua heria ki reira ki te tunu kai m\u014D te hapori. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000400\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EKa mutu, me waiho pea ki reira engari, ar\u0101 an\u014D ng\u0101 marae; Takahanga ki Kaik\u014Dura, Tuahiwi Marae ki Kaiapoi, Te Aitarakihi Marae ki Te Tihi-o-Maru, r\u0101tou katoa kua \u0101whina mai. N\u014D reira, ko t\u0101ku he mihi nui, whakaharahara o te ng\u0101kau, otir\u0101, o te P\u0101ti M\u0101ori me te P\u0101remata, taku k\u012B atu ki a r\u0101tou katoa i kaha ki te tautoko i te hapori e tangi nei, e auw\u0113 nei, me te t\u016Bmanako ia n\u0101 runga i te \u0101huatanga kua whakaw\u0101teahia mai t\u0113nei r\u0101, me whakanui i te hunga kua ngaro, waiho r\u0101tou kia moe, kia okioki. Kua ea te w\u0101hi ki a r\u0101tou. Ko t\u0101 t\u0101tou he tuku i te roimata me te h\u016Bp\u0113 kia ea ai te \u0101huatanga o mate. Huri noa, kia ora t\u0101tou.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000401\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003E[Greetings, Mr Assistant Speaker. Mention has been made of the M\u0101ori World\u2019s view on the Christchurch earthquake, so I will not take that further. Let me begin by talking about a man from Waikato by the name of Tetaki Tair\u0101kena. Recently he celebrated his 60th birthday. To most, he was plain Wally. To my knowledge, for over 25 years he taught the M\u0101ori language. He was very good at playing the guitar and was even in a band, according to some, alongside Steve Apirana. This Sunday he will lie in state on his marae at Tauwhare, close to Morrinsville. He is one of the ones who is about to be buried. So, yes, the most important thing is to acknowledge those who are lost from sight. Death is something that cannot be avoided.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000402\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003E Is it a holiday that is ahead of us? I say it is not. A holiday is a time to rest and recuperate, to catch up on things that one is not able to do on a working day. Is this a holiday? No. It is a time to give thought to those who have suffered the loss of loved ones, to offer help to those who are still grieving, and to grieve for those who have passed away. We must stand shoulder to shoulder with the people over there, be it non-M\u0101ori, M\u0101ori, people from beyond our shores, or migrants. That is the most important thing ahead of us. The principle cannot be faulted. Set aside a day for the people of that region of ours. I simply say that the M\u0101ori Party supports this emphatically. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000403\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EPersonally, I believe that it is an opportunity for us to acknowledge the rescue workers, the helpers, the ones who have worked tirelessly for that one of our communities, and indeed the nation\u2014not just the ones from here in New Zealand, but those from overseas as well, particularly the rescue workers from Japan, the police from Australia, and those all the way from the United States of America, who came to support us. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000404\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EI particularly want to acknowledge all the voluntary organisations. It is most appropriate that we thank them immensely\u2014M\u0101ori wardens of the country, the Salvation Army, the Rangiora Express, the Student Volunteer Army, the Farmy Army, the Red Cross, and the marae of the country. The marae opened up their doors to those with difficulties. Pipitea Marae just down the street along from us was one. It opened up its doors. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000405\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EBut Ng\u0101i Tahu must be accorded the greatest accolade. They were resolute in their efforts to lift morale and provide assistance and be a pillar and backbone for those who suffered hardship, whether they were non-M\u0101ori or M\u0101ori. They are currently set up at Wigram airbase. They have a telephone number to assist those seeking information and assistance relating to Pasifika people and other people. So a huge accolade is due to them and the financial help they provided for food and assistance. Ng\u0101i Tahu have enormous foresight to help those living in the South Island. Ng\u0101 Hau e Wh\u0101 Marae is one that has opened up its doors to the Ministry of Social Development, which has become a recovery assistance centre. Thanks indeed to the Ministry of M\u0101ori Development and the non-governmental organisations. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000406\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EI acknowledge all the tribes of the country that are part of me. M\u0101ori-medium schools have opened their doors to children within Ng\u0101i Tahu to go and stay within me in Te Arawa. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000407\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003ETo conclude this address, I recall a huge disaster that occurred in my area. It was the eruption of Tarawera in the year 1890. At that time, and according to the stories, 150 of Ng\u0101ti Rangitihi-T\u016Bhourangi perished. Te Arawa made clothing, land, and food available to the survivors, and that bond with Ng\u0101ti W\u0101hiao of W.hakarewarewa, Ng\u0101ti Hurunga of Ng\u0101puna, Tapuika of Waitangi, and Ng\u0101ti Rangitihi of Matat\u0101 still remains. The descendants are still there today, due to the great regard of these places within me in Te Arawa for those who suffered that huge earthquake. We have a similar situation again today, where the heart is opened up to assist and support those who have become victims of this disaster. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000408\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EI need to acknowledge Ng\u0101ti Porou; relatives of the Hon Hekia Parata; radio stations that raised money to help; M\u0101ori Television, for Hyundai CODE, releasing Glen Osborne and Reuben Wiki to sing, even if their efforts were not very flash; M\u0101ori-medium schools and language nurseries of this locality, such as Te K\u014Dhanga Reo o Ng\u0101 Mokopuna and Te K\u014Dhanga Reo o Te Kaahui, which performed cultural items on Lambton Quay yesterday, as I was told; the nurses from within me of Te Arawa; Waikato-Tainui, who sent their carpenters to that place; and a person whom you may not know anything about, Mr Assistant Speaker, Henare O\u2019Keefe. This person is from Hastings. He owns a mobile barbecue kitchen. Its name is Tunutunu. He has taken it down there to barbecue food for the community. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000409\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EPerhaps I should stop there, but before I do I need to mention the marae: the one in Kaik\u014Dura, the Takahanga Marae; the Tuahiwi Marae in Kaiapoi; and the Te Aitarakihi Marae at Timaru\u2014all have offered help. I extend my immense and heartfelt accolade, and that of the M\u0101ori Party and Parliament, as well, to all those who supported the community here, which is grieving and hurting so strongly, in the hope that this day will be set aside. Celebrate those who have perished. Allow them to sleep and rest. The part concerning them has been fulfilled. Ours is to shed tears and mucus, to acquit our losses through death. Thank you to all of us, throughout the Chamber.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000410\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ec266512-9fe8-47da-883e-48f046ee5059\u0022\u003EBill read a third time.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000411\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u002288df7e7bd3bb486384a585aa89e5c2d0\u0022\u003ESittings of the House\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000413\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u002225cd1f18b41b448e909dfc99e3bafacc\u0022\u003ESittings of the House\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00221368ba6c-25be-40f6-a2a0-8f81e1f78b79\u0022 data-id=\u002237e9415121ef48c391132079649976df\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000412\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221368ba6c-25be-40f6-a2a0-8f81e1f78b79\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002237e9415121ef48c391132079649976df\u0022\u003ECHRIS TREMAIN (Senior Whip\u2014National):\u003C/span\u003E The House has made good progress this afternoon. I seek leave for the House to rise early.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000414\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f4112fc5-c53f-4aa9-bf6d-5a05ce6252cf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00227c39182a0f4447d9b0d93d283043ae74\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Eric Roy)\u003C/span\u003E: Leave is sought for the House to rise early. Is there anyone opposed to that course of action? It appears not. Leave is granted. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000415\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f4112fc5-c53f-4aa9-bf6d-5a05ce6252cf\u0022\u003EThe House adjourned at 5.48 p.m.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2011031005e8a0a3c9444ae2a1a14a2cd3c614bc000416\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f4112fc5-c53f-4aa9-bf6d-5a05ce6252cf\u0022\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n  \u003C/body\u003E\n\u003C/html\u003E"