Labour MPs mourn passing of Sam Jackson

Kua hinga te totara o te wa nui o Tane. Haere, haere, haere atu ra.

Wellington based Labour MPs Rino Tirikatene, Meka Whatiri, Grant Robertson, Annette King, Chris Hipkins and Trevor Mallard are mourning the death of kaumātua Sam Jackson who passed away last evening.

“Kaumatua Sam was a man of great mana and dignity.  He was a true leader for the Taranaki whānui and for the people of the Wellington region. He led us through so many significant occasions and we will miss his oratory and storytelling,” the Labour MPs said.

“Sam had the respect of so many people across the region. He always made sure that everyone felt included, and even in the most serious occasions his warmth and sense of humour shone through.

“We will truly miss Sam’s wisdom and presence.  He was committed to his role and undertook it with sensitivity and humility.  He and June have made an enormous contribution to our city.  We are especially thinking of June and their whānau at this time. They should know just how much their husband, father and grandfather was loved and respected,” the Labour MPs said.

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