30 Sep 2016

Pacific MPs to focus on relaying information

10:05 am on 30 September 2016

Pacific MPs have been told to remember who they serve at a conference on sexual health in New Zealand.

More than 30 delegates representing 10 Pacific countries are in Wellington to discuss how Pacific parliaments can prioritise sexual and reproductive health and rights in the sustainable development goals, or SDGs.

The Deputy Prime Minister of Samoa Fiame Naomi Mata'afa says it's important politicians check they're meeting the needs of their people.

The Deputy Prime Minister of Samoa Fiame Naomi Mata'afa says it's important politicians check they're meeting the needs of their people. Photo: RNZ/Daniela Maoate-Cox

But the delegates were told talk is worth little if it doesn't improve the reality for Pacific people.

The Deputy Prime Minister of Samoa, Fiame Naomi Mata'afa said MPs are targeted on the concept that they are representing their respective communities.

"The whole point is, and I think it's still relevant, to remind members of parliament of that community connection, their representation of those as opposed to being a member of a government that sets policies," she said.

Fiame Naomi Mata'afa said MPs have to check if their work is actually matching up with the needs expressed at the local level.