Hon Heather Roy speech to GiftEDnz Mini-conference; Campus of Massey University;

Saturday, March 20 2010.

Wellington, March 20 NZPA - As Stephen Versalko starts his six-year jail term for defrauding ASB bank of nearly $18 million, his wife has vowed to stand by him.

Wellington, March 19 NZPA - A new school of public health at Massey University will bring together work on some of New Zealand's biggest health problems.

Confronting the biggest health issues faced by New Zealand societies is the basis for Massey University's new School of Public Health that will be officially launched in Wellington on Wednesday.

Agriculture Minister David Carter today sharply criticised dairy farmers who are failing to meet agreed targets for controlling pollution.

The Government has earmarked $3 million for the Waikato region to support dairy and meat food innovation.

Wellington, March 12 NZPA - People more sensitive to tasting fat in their food are less likely to be overweight, a group of scientists, including a New Zealander, has discovered.

Police Minister Judith Collins today welcomed the 200th additional Police officer to Counties-Manukau, and said that extra Police in the district were having a positive impact on crime.

The 65th Manawatu Inter Secondary Schools Athletics Championships is being held on Saturday March 13 at the all weather Manawatu Community Athletics Track at Massey University.

The Motor Trade Association (MTA) has completed the restructure of its management team that began late November 2009, with the appointment of a further General Manager and a Web and Communications Manager. The restructuring was undertaken as part of MTA's strategic plan through to 2015.