A former Maori Language Commission chief executive and Far North iwi leader has been appointed to the board of the Families Commission.
Haami Piripi. Photo: RNZ / Lois Williams
Te Runanga o Te Rarawa Chairman, Haami Piripi, will take up the role which will see him provide robust, independent research and advice which Social Development Minister Paula Bennett said he was well suited to.
Ms Bennett said Mr Piripi had a detailed understanding of the social sector, and the delivery of services by both government and non-government providers.
She said his appointment would add to the commission's depth of experience at what was a pivotal time for the Families Commission, following the creation of the Social Policy Evaluation and Research Unit last year.
Haami Piripi said his experience growing up in a rural Maori community and around the marae will be an asset in his new role on the Families Commission.
He said there were some unique issues faced by whanau Maori that needed to be addressed at a national level and his background working and living amongst struggling families meant he was well equipped to take up his new position.
Mr Piripi is nearing the end of his of third term as the runanga chair. His appointment to the board is for a term of three years.
