Our 2011 election manifesto - Labour Party

Labour will continue to support initiatives working within Pacific communities to
reduce obesity rates and to promote the importance of nutrition while understanding
that food is central to Pacific cultures.
Smoking cessation amongst Pacific Youth
Evidence shows that rates of smoking amongst Pacific youth are significantly higher than
European youth. 39 The consequences of which can be earlier deaths for Pacific people
compared to Māori and Non-Māori. A number of targeted cessation programmes for Pacific
communities are already operating but given the disproportionate negative effects of
smoking and second hand smoke on the Pacific community, more needs to be done.
Labour will develop and implement a strong and well-resourced Pacific Tobacco
strategy
The benefits from the success of such a strategy will be the reduction in conditions such as
SIDS, cancer, diabetes and asthma. This policy must be a partnership with Non-Government
Organisations that are already taking measures to lessen the harm of tobacco amongst the
wider community. The input of medical experts, the media, social media and high profile
Pacific people must also be sought. Particular attention must be given to targeting the
reduction of smoking rates with Pacific women.
Growing the Pacific health workforce
A strong Pacific health workforce is vital to ensure New Zealand has a healthy Pacific
community. The projected increase in the Pacific population and the increase in the number
of elderly Pacific peoples demands a real focus in this area.
Many Pacific islanders will utilise mainstream services but the ability to have resources,
qualified staff and systems in place to deal with a growing Pacific population will enable the
health system to be more effective and efficient.
Labour will recommence a commitment to the Pacific health workforce to maximise
the health system‟s ability to respond to the needs of the Pacific community.
Labour will commit to training and investing in a skilled Pacific health workforce that
understands the challenges and opportunities in the Pacific community.
Ensuring safe and healthy homes
Pacific Islanders, like all New Zealanders, have the right to a good home to provide families
with the basics to live the Kiwi dream.
39 www.nzma.org.nz/journal/122-1303/3795/content.pdf
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