Hekia Parata won’t stand in next year’s election
She says it is “the right decision” for her and her family and it is the right time to make her intentions known.
National Party list MP and Education Minister Hekia Parata has revealed she will not be contesting next year’s election.
Ms Parata advised Prime Minster John Key earlier this year of her decision.
She says it is “the right decision” for her and her family and is the right time to make her intentions known.
“I have no plans beyond serving as Education Minister as long as the Prime Minister wishes me to. There are still a number of deliverables in the education work plan in the meantime and my focus and energy will be unwavering,” she says.
“It is an honour to work each day in this portfolio – it’s true that it involves a number of difficult decisions but I have been committed to making the right decision for our children and young people.”
She says she is keen to see a fresh candidate nominated in the seat of Mana and to provide voters with a strong contest at the next election.
Ms Parata was elected to Parliament in 2008 and has served as the Minister of Education since 2011.
She has previously held the portfolios of Minister of Pacific Island Affairs, Minister of Energy and Resources, Minister for Women, Minister of Ethnic Affairs, Minister for Community & Voluntary Sector and Associate Minister of ACC.
Jason Walls
Wed, 19 Oct 2016
Wed, 19 Oct 2016
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Hekia Parata won’t stand in next year’s election
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