23 August 2000 Media Statement
Dunedin Volunteer Centre Speech
Get active in Your community, Maharey urges
23 August 2000
New Zealanders should become more involved in their community, Community and Voluntary Sector Minister Steve Maharey
says.
Speaking to community groups in Dunedin this afternoon Mr Maharey said that while the role of voluntary agencies often
went unrecognised, strong local organisations are essential to build strong communities. The Government wants to
encourage New Zealanders to give of their time and energy within their communities and is working to actively support
the community and voluntary sector.
"Next year New Zealand will mark the International Year of the Volunteer. This is a chance to recognise the hard work
many people already do in their communities.
"Equally next year is an opportunity to impress upon New Zealanders that we each have a responsibility to give back to
the community which nurtured us, so that the next generation gets the best possible start in life.
"The Government has established a working group to develop a new framework for the relationship between the State and
community and voluntary organisations. We want to harness the expertise of people well connected to their local
communities, like Dunedin Council of Social Services Executive Director Pam Warren, to provide the right platform for
the community to thrive.
"Local people and businesses need to get involved in their communities. Strong thriving communities are built by effort
of local people and this is what we must encourage," Steve Maharey said.
ENDS