MEDIA RELEASE 20/09/2013

TAIRAWHITI MULTICULTURAL COUNCIL MEDIA RELEASE 20/09/13 DIVERSITY IS AN ASSET TO TAIRĀWHITI Local body election candidates have been quizzed by the newly formed Tairawhiti Multicultural Council about their views on cultural diversity. Council Chairman Arish Naresh says that all candidates are open to different ethnicities living in Tairawhiti. This is great. “The many cultures present in Tairawhiti add to the social, cultural and economic capital of this region and should be celebrated.” The responses of some candidates, such as Manu Caddie and Selwyn Parata reflected their involvement with multicultural communities and contained more detailed views on the benefits and issues of multiculturalism.” The survey showed that most candidates were open to dialogue regarding establishment of support for cultural groups. Brian Wilson suggested that greater engagement is needed with ethnic communities. Rehette Stoltz’s suggested the need for a “go to organisation” such as TMC for new migrants to create linkages with settled migrants. Arish Naresh says that this is one task the Tairawhiti Multicultural Council is keen to take on, but it would need resources to deliver this. Many candidates mentioned having different cultural dishes as part of celebrating diversity. “Culinary diversity adds spice to life, but the benefits of multiculturalism goes beyond food and dances”, Arish Naresh says. Migrants across New Zealand contribute greatly to economic growth of New Zealand. It provides local communities with global perspectives and contacts, which provides potential economic capital. In Tairawhiti and nationally many sectors of the economy including, hospitals and service industries rely heavily on the migrant workforce.” Many candidates have highlighted that there need to be more jobs to attract migrants to Gisborne. They also recognise there is a need for jobs for current migrants and locals. “The voters really would like to see an action plan on how jobs will be created not just for migrants but for people of all races, religions and cultures across Tairawhiti. A clear strategy to deliver jobs has not been provided by any candidate” Arish Naresh says. The Tairawhiti Multicultural Council does not believe in promoting any particular candidate. It is here to work with the people to achieve the best for everyone that live in our beautiful region. Detailed responses can be viewed at the Tairawhiti Multicultural Council’s website: http://tairawhitimulticulturalcouncil.blogspot.co.nz/ For queries and clarifications contact: Arish Naresh- President Tairawhiti Multicultural Council Ph.: 0226248145 Email: diversetairawhiti@gmail.com