Greens seeking seven Ministers

The Herald reports:

In four months, Green MPs could become government ministers for the first time in their party’s 24-year history.

The final make-up of a Labour-Greens government would depend on several factors, in particular the role of NZ First in a possible coalition.

But if Greens are part of the government and portfolios are divided proportionally, they could expect to have up to seven ministers.

Maybe even more. They could be a third of the Government caucus, and hence get say nine out of 28 ministerial slots.

The Greens want significant portfolios in three areas – economic, social issues and environment.

Doesn’t leave much! I suppose we should be grateful they don’t want Defence!

Labour has ruled out giving Green co-leader Russel Norman the finance portfolio. He is expected to fight for the economic development role.

But he might not be trusted to manage a portfolio which includes oil exploration and mining. Instead, it could be split between two people, and Dr Norman put in charge of green investment or green innovation.

The Greens have unveiled a proposal for a $120 million Green Investment Bank, for which Dr Norman could be made responsible.

Co-leader Metiria Turei would seek a prominent social issues portfolio. It is understood that she has her heart set on being minister of education.

Shudder. The Greens in charge of the country’s education system.