Great speech from Rodney

I like a lot Rodney Hide’s speech to Local Government NZ.

I have to say, ladies and gentlemen, that I don’t regard myself the Minister of Local Government – I consider myself the Minister for Ratepayers.

I don’t represent councils.

I represent the people whose hard work and savings pay the rates.

And provide councils with their income.

That sums up the way I approach to my job.

I’ve waited a long time to hear a Minister say that.