POLITICS: 

Due to the hard work of our team of five million, New Zealand remains on-track to eliminate the deadly Covid-19 virus. By going hard and early, we have prevented the devastation and large-scale death that swept many other places in the world.

eader of the Opposition Simon Bridges has today announced the first part of National’s plan for getting New Zealand working again.

The Green Party are proposing a package that ensures they are paid a dignified wage so they do not live in poverty, said Green Party Co-leader Marama Davidson this week, adding, “Throughout the COVID crisis, we have all relied on the essential workers on the frontline. The people who stack shelves, care for our most vulnerable in rest homes, and transport goods around the country, risking their own health in doing so.”

We can all be proud to be part of our team of five million that has worked hard to eliminate the COVID-19 pandemic from our shores.

New Zealanders across the country are doing an amazing job at this unprecedented time. By staying home, you are helping to save lives. As we enter the second half of the Level 4 Lockdown period there are promising signs that we are starting to stamp out Covid-19, but we cannot be complacent.

This week National Party Leader Simon Bridges released the first of part of our five-part economic plan as we head towards the election.

As a Member of Parliament, I often visit schools in my electorate of Mt Roskill and I see so many children full of energy and potential. I like to think that’s because each of them has the essentials – enough to eat, warm clothes and sturdy shoes, and a place to call home.

The House sat for the first time this year on the 11th of February and I was very excited to hear Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern deliver her opening statement – it always gets me fired up for the year ahead.

This is our plan for New Zealand and New Zealanders heading in to the 2020 general elections. As always National has put in place a strong economic plan for the New Zealand economy and New Zealanders.

I am back in Parliament from the 11th of February after a restful holiday break with my family. I hope all of you have also managed to have a break and recharge your batteries.

This is my first column for Indian News in 2020 and I hope the year is off to a good start for everyone.

Mahatma Gandhi is recognised as one of the great leaders of the 20th century. One of the key principles for which he is known is equality. Mahatma Gandhi promoted civil rights for women, abolition of the caste system in India and fair treatment of all people regardless of their religion or background.