Hon CARMEL SEPULONI (Minister for Social Development and Employment): In 2018, my colleague the Hon Willie Jackson proposed the establishment of regional skills leadership groups (RSLGs) to make Government more responsive to the workforce needs of our regions. The insights produced by the then interim RSLGs were critical to our COVID-19 response. They are one of the many reasons our economy has remained resilient, with unemployment continuing at near-record lows. The last month has seen many of the now permanent RSLGs release their regional workforce plans. Each plan is unique to its region and people, and reflects the sectors and opportunities that are important to them. The plans will be a catalyst for regions to build a shared vision for their labour markets and will influence regional decision-making to drive change that supports more New Zealanders into good jobs. I want to congratulate the RSLGs on progressing this critical kaupapa for our regions. 