May 06, 2013
CEG high point of Horomia contribution
Māori Party Co-leader Tariana Turia says the late Parekura Horomia did his best work before coming to parliament.
The former Ikaroa Rawhiti MP died a week ago and was buried on Saturday at Tolaga Bay after a tangi attended by thousands of people.
Mrs Turia, who worked with Mr Horomia when he headed the Labour Department’s Community Employment Group, says that’s where he truly shone.
“He employed people from all walks of life and those people who others wouldn’t give a job, such as those in gangs. He gave them jobs because he knew they were leaders in their own right. My own personal belief is that he achieved more before he went into politics but that’s not to take anything away from what he did achieve," she says.
Tariana Turia says Parekura Horomia’s death in office has strengthened her resolve to quit politics at the next election so she can spend time with family and hapū.
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