Welcome from our new Minister, Poto Williams
Minister for Disability Issues, Minister Poto Williams welcomes you to our new Ministry and talks about what we hope to achieve.
You can watch the video or find the welcome in the alternate format you prefer. We've also provided a press release for our new Ministry.
Video transcript
Kia ora koutou
I’m absolutely thrilled to be the Minister for Disability Issues.
My recent appointment comes at a historic time for the disability community, which has waited a long time for meaningful change.
The launch of Whaikaha - the Ministry of Disabled People, is a huge step forward for a better, more independent, future for disabled people and their whānau in Aotearoa New Zealand.
I firmly believe disabled people must have more control over their lives and big part of achieving that is improving how government support is provided. This Government has delivered a new ministry with a mandate to do this.
But it won’t be doing it alone. Disabled people know best what’s best for them.
That’s why I, along with the new Ministry, will be working closely with the disability community.
I strongly believe in the importance of working closely with community groups to achieve better outcomes for communities.
For too long the disability community has had decisions made for them without their say.
This Ministry will ensure disabled people have a real voice and increased self-determination. The mantra “Nothing about us without us” will be part of its DNA.
I’m excited to be part of this journey. It’s been a long one, but this is a true turning point and the road ahead is bright.
In the beautiful language of the Cook Islands, I E ra ke ia na Tiaure ei.
It’s a different day!