Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern has thanked six retiring ministers for their contribution to Government and the lives on New Zealanders.
The PM today yesterday six of the Government’s 64 MPs will retire at next year’s election.
Ministers Poto Williams, Aupito William Sio and David Clark will retire, along with MPs Jamie Strange, Marja Lubeck and Paul Eagle. All will stay in parliament until the election.
“I want to thank them personally for their work and for being part of our team. They have all made an important contribution to Government and the lives of New Zealanders,” Ms Ardern said.
“These decisions come in the midst of Labour’s selection process for seats in the 2023 elections. MPs have made these decisions in good time to allow succession planning for both Cabinet and caucus.”
She said the retirements will have no immediate impact on Cabinet, with a reshuffle not scheduled until early next year.
“I’ve had conversations with each MP and Minister. They’ve each made their own call based on their personal circumstances – which I both understand and respect,” the Prime Minister said.
“To each I want to say thank you, with special mention of Ministers. Minister Sio has done huge work in the Pacific, been a fierce advocate for his community, and I will forever be grateful for his role in the Dawn Raids apology.
“Minister Clark has, in recent times, led our work on supermarket reform and demonstrated his intellect but clear focus on protecting the most vulnerable through consumer finance reform.
“Minister Williams brought her experience in the community sector to Cabinet, working across groups as diverse as the construction sector through to the disability community. She also did a huge amount of work on the implementation of gun reforms.
“Marja, Paul and Jamie have been such passionate advocates for their communities and are valued members of our team.
“To each MP and Minster I give my thanks for their collective years of service and wish them well for the future,” said Ms Ardern.
