Settling In report launched in Tauranga

20 April 2010

Closer links help migrant and community groups

The Tauranga / Western Bay of Plenty's ‘Settling In' report was launched in Tauranga on 16 April. 

Hon. Tariana Turia, Minister of the Community and Voluntary Sector, officially launched the report, with Mayors Stuart Crosby and Ross Paterson, local MP Simon Bridges, and Race Relations Commissioner Joris de Bres also speaking.  

Vibrant entertainment from local cultural groups highlighted the evening.

Philippa Cairns, English Language Partners' manager, said, "We are thrilled that a photo of our Sikh temple English language group is on the cover of the report. The Sikh temple group was formed as a direct result of networking that occurred over months of meetings and consultations with the agencies and community groups in the preparation of the report.

"With this kind of valuable networking happening, it's no suprise that many responses to concerns from the migrants interviewed were achieved before the report was finally published!"

Philippa believes that the closer links forged through the meetings with agencies and service providers will be to the benefit of the migrant community.

"It was a surprise and honour for English Language Partners to receive a certificate from Joris de Bres, on behalf of the Human Rights Commission, for our centre's involvement in the production of the 'Settling In' report.