Govt announces $1m funding boost for ethnic communities after Christchurch terror attacks

12:59 pm on 13 April 2019

A government fund to support ethnic communities affected by the Christchurch terror attacks has been boosted by $1 million.

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Ethnic Communities Minister Jenny Salesa. Photo: VNP / Phil Smith

The Minister for Ethnic Communities, Jenny Salesa, says affected communities are invited to apply for the funds to develop projects that will enhance their development and enrich social connections.

"The Office of Ethnic Communities, as conduit between the Government and ethnically diverse communities, will also receive funding for additional staff to provide better on the ground culturally appropriate support to victims and families in Christchurch," Ms Salesa said.

Ms Salesa plans to visit Muslim leaders throughout the country, and a series of interfaith talks is also being arranged, bringing together leaders from different religions to talk about building an inclusive society.

"These measures will help us in creating a New Zealand we can all be proud of; and as a Government we are committed to providing certainty and ongoing support to ethnically diverse communities, including Muslim communities, in the wake of the attacks."

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