Venkat Raman
Wellington, July 1, 2021
The long-awaited and much-needed Ministry of Diversity, Inclusion and Ethnic Communities became a reality with its launch at a special event in Wellington today (July 1, 2021).
Speaking on the occasion at the Banquet Hall of Parliament, Minister for Diversity, Inclusion and Ethnic Communities Priyanca Radhakrishnan said that this is the first time in the history of the country that a Ministry and Chief Executive solely focused on improving outcomes for our ethnic communities has been established.
Better outcomes for all
“Our ethnic communities account about 20% of our population. Our government wants to ensure that New Zealand is a place where everyone feels safe, valued, heard, and has a sense of belonging. Our diversity is a source of strength and we must ensure we take steps to become even more inclusive so that diversity can thrive,” she said.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced the formation of the Ministry in December 2020 in response to the recommendations of the Royal Commission of Inquiry into the terrorist attack on Christchurch masjidain on March 15, 2019.
“The Ministry will continue to deliver the functions of the Office of Ethnic Communities and look to build additional functions and influence across the public sector. Many from our diverse ethnic communities have been calling for a Ministry for some time now, and I want to acknowledge them today,” Ms Radhakrishnan said.
Far-reaching objectives
The Office of Ethnic Communities, which has thus far been functioning under the Department of Internal Affairs will cease to exist, with its staff transferred to the Ministry.
Ms Radhakrishnan also announced the appointment of Mervin Singham as the Chief Executive of the new Ministry.
Mr Singham is not new to Ethnic Communities, since he was previously in that role, before moving on to the Royal Commissioner of Inquiry into Child Abuse.
Ms Radhakrishnan said that priorities of the Ministry will be to promote the value of diversity and improve inclusion of ethnic communities, ensure that government services are accessible and address barriers to employment.
