Simmonds Gains New Caucus Ranking

Southland’s voice in Parliament just got a little stronger today, as Invercargill MP Penny Simmonds moves up the party ranks.

“National leader Christopher Luxon announced the party’s refreshed caucus line-up ahead of election 2023 today, with Simmonds gaining a new ranking in the 20th spot.

“Elected as a new MP in October 2020, I am delighted to have now been promoted to 20th position in the party caucus.

“I feel privileged to have been given these new responsibilities and portfolios, including ‘Workforce Planning,’ while retaining my Tertiary Education spokesperson’s role, which still requires much focus.

“I also think the pairing of the these two portfolios shows how focused National is on ensuring Tertiary Education works closely with industry to ensure businesses get graduates with the right skills and abilities to support the growth of our economy.

“I have been active over the past three years, focusing on education issues, in particular the Government’s Polytechnic megamerger Te Pukenga, and concerns around the future of the Southern Institute of Technology in Invercargill, along with Southland Hospital issues, and the regional economy, and I intend to keep the pressure on Government around these areas.

“I feel honoured and privileged to represent the people of the Invercargill electorate, from Bluff and Rakiura-Stewart Island, to Tuatapere and Riverton, Edendale and Woodlands, there are a broad range of issues facing the people of the South and I am ready to do the work to represent them.”

Ms Simmonds new responsibilities include: Tertiary Education & Skills, Workforce Planning, Early Childhood Education, Associate Education and Associate Social Development & Employment.