Minister of Health Andrew Little has congratulated the inaugural Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission and its board as the Commission marks becoming an independent Crown entity. Minister Little says it is a very significant day for the Commission, “Its members will be dedicated to contributing to better and equitable mental health and wellbeing outcomes for all people in New Zealand.”
The Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission opened its doors yesterday, Tuesday February 9. Establishing the Commission was one of the recommendations of He Ara Oranga, the Government inquiry into mental health and addiction. It will perform an enduring role in transforming Aotearoa New Zealand’s approach to mental health and wellbeing.
Mr. Little adds the board’s membership comprises a diverse range of skills, backgrounds, and experience and he is confident it will represent Aotearoa New Zealand’s broad population well.
Of Samoan decent, Dr. Jemaima Tiatia-Seath appointed to the Commissions board was also one of the six panelists on the 2018 Mental Health and Addiction Inquiry. She is the Co-Head of School, Te Wānanga o Waipapa, School of Māori Studies and Pacific Studies at the University of Auckland.
Image credit: Dr. Jemaima Tiatia-Seath board member of the Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission, University of Auckland