9495 (2024). Hon Peeni Henare to the Minister of Health

9495 (2024). Hon Peeni Henare to the Minister of Health: Does the Minister stand by his statement about Te Aka Whai Ora “Māori Health Authority staff are to transfer to Health New Zealand and the Ministry of Health—this will retain a focus on Māori health and retain organisational knowledge, including any gains that have been achieved”, and if so, what direction, if any, has he given to health officials to retain the staff he is speaking of amongst the 6.5% cuts to the Ministry of Health?

Hon Dr Shane Reti: Yes. The Director-General of Health is responsible for organisational changes at the Ministry of Health. I am advised that 13 positions were transferred from the Māori Health Authority to the Ministry of Health in early April 2024, consistent with the Health Sector (Transfers) Act 1993. These positions were included within the existing Māori Health Directorate functions, Māori health strategy, policy and monitoring. I am further advised that the Ministry of Health has not made any organisational change proposals affecting any of the positions transferred. I have given no directions on this matter.