30226 (2023). Hon Dr Megan Woods to the Minister of Finance

30226 (2023). Hon Dr Megan Woods to the Minister of Finance: Does the Minister agree with Tuvalu's Opposition Leader Enele Sopoaga that "We rely on New Zealand to stand up strong with the island countries," and if so, why is his government reallocating funding from the Climate Emergency Response Fund to pay for tax cuts?

Hon Nicola Willis: We are committed to supporting our Pacific partners in achieving development outcomes, including on climate change. New Zealand has substantial commitments helping Pacific Island countries to adapt to the impacts of climate change and reduce emissions. Additionally, reallocating unspent funds from the Climate Emergency Response Fund (CERF) does not mean that we will not consider funding climate related initiatives in future, if they represent strong value for public money. However, there are many potential ways to achieve our climate goals, and doing so does not necessarily require the Government to fund adaptation or emissions reductions directly.