Media Statement

For Immediate Release

14 February 2007

COMMUNITY SECTOR TASKFORCE’S WORK SHOULD BE COMMUNITY DIRECTED

Tangata Whenua, Community and Voluntary Sector organisations are calling on the Government to build quality, open relationships that recognise and maintain the independence of the Sector.

Sector organisations were responding to a Community Sector Taskforce media release about concerns over the Government process around a national forum looking at ways to strengthen the working relationship between the two parties.

The Community Sector Taskforce is an independent body, established in 2003, to continue the work developed by the joint community sector and government working parties (2000 - 2002) to grow the relationship between Government and the Sector. 

“The independence of Sector organisations, such as the Taskforce, is a fundamental part of a healthy democracy,” says Dave Henderson Coordinator.of the Association of Non-Governmental Organisations of Aotearoa (ANGOA).

Sector organisations deliver huge value to New Zealand communities across a wide range of areas, including arts; culture and heritage; sport and recreation; environment and conservation; education and employment; faith communities; social services and housing; law, advocacy and human rights; philanthropy; international development; health, disability; professional associations; Pacific and other ethnic communities,” says Mr Henderson.

A 2002 study of ten charities in New Zealand showed they return between $3 and $5 worth of services for every $1 they received in funding. 

“Tangata Whenua and Community and Voluntary Sector organisations deliver such enormous value for money because they are independent and understand local needs best.” says Tina Reid, New Zealand Federation of Voluntary Welfare Organisations (NZFVWO).

“It is vital that they are allowed to determine Sector leadership for their own development in a mutually respectful and open way, without prescription from Government.

“For the Community Sector Taskforce to achieve its objectives it must be treated as an independent organisation by both the Sector and Government. This is particularly important when it is looking to determine a way forward for funding and accountability structures with Government,” says Ms Reid.

ENDS