Regional Commissioner's foreword
It’s a pleasure to introduce you to the Ministry of Social Development’s 2009/2010 Regional Plan for the East Coast Region.
Employment, helping young people to thrive, keeping kids safe and ensuring value for money are our four key priorities for the coming year.
Like other parts of the country, the East Coast faces challenging times. We cannot overlook the impact of the changing economic situation on the region’s economy, but we must not lose sight of the positive opportunities ahead. While the region faces a low growth environment over the coming year, this is balanced against positive rural sector trends such as improved growing conditions for the region’s fruit and horticultural industries.
Earlier this year we co-hosted economic summits in Hawke’s Bay and Gisborne. These brought business and industry heads together to assess the current economic climate, to explore some practical ways to protect jobs, and to explore alliances to promote economic growth across the region. As a result we are developing sector strategies, building up a collective understanding of industry projections, building a regional economic profile, and examining ideas for innovation.
Effective teamwork is even more important this year. Helping New Zealanders to be successful in their lives is achievable only if we continue to nurture the strong relationships we have with other government agencies and community organisations.
The number of people affected by family violence will increase in a recession and we need to be ready to respond. The It’s not OK campaign has changed the way New Zealanders think and act about family violence and we will continue to work with our local partners so people caught up in this distressing situation can get help and support quickly. We will keep working with our non-government partners in Hawke’s Bay and Tairawhiti to provide support, help and guidance.
Wherever and however you might become involved with the Ministry, I promise you we will find the best solution to make a positive difference. We may need to learn and develop better ways of doing things, but you can be assured my team across the region will strive to make a real difference to the lives of individuals and families in the East Coast Region.
Annie Aranui
Regional Commissioner
for Social Development
