Kia ora John,
You may have seen the news today that Grant Robertson is retiring from politics. It's a sad day for the Labour team, because Grant has been a much-loved member of the Labour Caucus for over 15 years. But more than that it's an opportunity to pause and reflect on the huge role he's played as a force for progress in New Zealand.
During COVID, Grant steered the New Zealand economy through the biggest shock since World War 2, and we came out the other side with one of the strongest economies in the world. The benefits of those decisions will last for many years to come. At the same time, Grant also entirely overhauled how the government puts together its budget, elevating progress on child poverty, environmental health, and housing quality alongside progress on GDP and unemployment rates. As he said in 2019, we put wellbeing at the heart of everything we do.
And, despite all his duties as steward of our economy, Grant made huge strides as Minister for Sport, too, including big advances for women and girls in sport.
It is an understatement to say Grant will be missed inside the Labour team. He has been a leader in thought and action, and he's been a friend to so many.
I also want to congratulate Barbara Edmonds as she steps up to the critical job of Labour's Finance Spokesperson. Barbara has big shoes to fill, but anyone who's met her knows she's got the smarts, the energy, and the instinct to do Labour proud.
I had a look back at Grant's maiden speech to Parliament today. He closed it by saying:
"In my time in this Parliament, I will work to build an ever better, fairer New Zealand, where we seek to ensure that achieving one’s potential is not just the preserve of the privileged, but possible for all."
Grant has absolutely made good on his promise, but still his words remain starkly relevant today.
Labour is proudly a people-powered party. We seek a better life for everyone in the country, not just for the fortunate few. If you share Grant's view, and Labour's vision, then the best thing you can do is get involved. Battles are won by the people who show up, and there are so many ways to back your beliefs, including:
- You can make your voice heard in your workplace and your community
- You can join Labour <[link removed]>and the movement Grant has worked so hard for;
- You can donate to our Fightback Fund <[link removed]>, which supports campaigns to help people of all walks of life across the country, starting right now.
On behalf of the entire Labour whānau, thank you Grant Robertson for your dedication, your intellect, and your compassion. We will miss you from our Parliament, but we know you'll always be with our movement. And all the best for your next challenge!
Ngā mihi maioha,
Jill Day, Labour President
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A short note on donations:
John, we’re proud to be a truly people-powered Party. If you can, please click below to make a donation to our Party today so we can keep growing our movement, from now until the next election. Our campaigning doesn’t stop now.
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Authorised by Rob Salmond, 187 Featherston St, Wellington.
