Trade Me deal a vote of confidence in New Zealand
Fairfax's purchase of on-line auction house Trade Me represents 700 million votes of confidence in the New Zealand economy Finance Minister Dr Michael Cullen said this week. "The $700 million dollar deal is a timely reminder of fundamental strength of the New Zealand economy. Fairfax would not have made this investment if the medium to long-term growth prospects of the New Zealand economy were not excellent," the Finance Minister said. "I congratulate Sam Morgan on his success. He typifies the smart, tech-savvy Kiwi we need to help transform this economy. May he continue to inspire entrepreneurs across New Zealand," concluded Dr Cullen.

Important information for families
Over the next two weeks more than half a million households will be encouraged to check whether they are entitled to tax relief under the Working for Families package. An estimated 85,000 middle-income New Zealand families will become eligible for Family Assistance tax credits for the first time as part of Working for Families from 1 April. Detailed information about the package, who qualifies, and how to get it, is being sent to over half a million households over the next two weeks. It also profiles families with different incomes and circumstances to demonstrate how the changes will make families better off. For more information call 0800-227-773.

Police Act to be reviewed
Police Minister Annette King announced this week that the Police Act is to be comprehensively reviewed, updating the legislation for the 21st century. The current Police Act (1958) does not reflect changes to communities and policing practice over that time, she says. The process of preparing new legislation will provide opportunities for local input and international ideas on policing to be discussed. Ms King says a wide consultation process is expected to begin by early next year, with a public consultation paper to ensure we can all have a stake in New Zealand's policing future.

Child Youth and Family and Social Welfare to merge
The Department of Child Youth and Family Services (CYF) is to merge with the Ministry of Social Development (MSD), it was announced this week. The resignation of the CYF Chief Executive had provided the State Services Commission an opportunity to consider options including a merger. The State Services Commissioner will appoint the chief executive of MSD, Peter Hughes, to be the acting chief executive of CYF, to manage any transitional issues and continue current initiatives. Ruth Dyson will continue as Minister responsible for CYF. The merger will take effect from 1 July 2006.

Congratulations for Oscar wins
Prime Minister and Minister of Arts, Culture and Heritage Helen Clark congratulated the New Zealand-based films that won Oscars at the 2006 Academy Awards. Helen Clark said it was a vote of confidence in New Zealand's strong film industry that movies filmed here won four major awards at the Academy Awards ceremony. The major international investments in King Kong and the Narnia film were secured with the support of the Large Budget Screen Production Grant Scheme set up by this Government in 2003.

2006 Census - It's the Day to be Counted
This week saw the 2006 Census - the Day to Be Counted. The census is New Zealand's official count of population and dwellings and relies on everyone participating. Taking part in the census is vital, as it provides a vital stock-take of this country's social and cultural makeup, said Statistics Minister Clayton. Census is a vital tool for planning the country's future needs, such as housing, infrastructure, business and community needs. For the first time this year New Zealanders have the option of filling in census forms online. Completed forms will be collected by Sunday 19 March.