West Coast-Tasman MP Maureen Pugh spent part of her final day in Parliament welcoming two groups of Māpua School Year 8 students visiting the capital during the final week of Term 3. Speaking to the students, Maureen reflected on her long career in public service.
“I am very honoured that you have come to Parliament to see me today – my final day after more than 10 years as an MP and 28 years since I first joined my local Council,” she told the students.
“It’s a varied role and there’s no real handbook, but it’s all about talking with the communities and helping where we can,” Maureen said, before asking whether any of the group aspired to enter politics.
“Go and get some life experience and bring it back to this place,” she advised the group of 12 and 13-year-olds.
The visit took place before Maureen carried out her duties as Assistant Speaker of the 54th Parliament before it rose for the final time.
