78949 (2024). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister for Disability Issues

78949 (2024). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister for Disability Issues: What information regarding conflicts of interest is explicitly requested or expected to be declared as part of the appointment process for Crown boards within ministries, departments, and agencies for which the Minister is responsible?

Hon Louise Upston: The New Zealand Sign Language Board is a Ministerial Advisory Committee, responsible to me as Minister for Disability Issues. I am advised that as part of the appointments process, the Ministry of Disabled People – Whaikaha seeks confirmation on whether an applicant has “current or previous interests which might create a conflict if [they] were to be appointed to the NZSL Board” in their nominee declaration form. The nominee declaration form notes conflicts of interests include but are not limited to: employment; any directorships, board memberships, trusteeships; memberships of other organisations; interests in businesses or professional practices; share ownership; beneficial or other interests in trusts; and family relationships. If an applicant declares an interest in the nominee form, they are required to describe the issue and how it relates to the NZSL Board.