Friday, August 14, 2009

Michael Joseph Savage.


Michael Joseph Savage was the first Labour Prime Minister of New Zealand and lead the nation for 14 years from 1935 to 1949.

Under his time as the leader of this nation, Labour introduced:

Compulsory trade unionism
The 40 hour working week
Introduced welfare benefits for invalids and the unemployed
Removed most fees for healthcare and secondary education
Began the state housing programme, providing rental houses for low-income workers
Replaced the term 'Native' with 'Maori' in official usage, including the Minister of Māori Affairs

These things make what New Zealand is today, an amazing nation of diversity and support for those in need of welfare.

We are only a small and young nation, but we march with a union of hearts and souls to a common destiny.
- Michael Joseph Savage