Recycler gets boost

It’s a fund cut: Faafoi

Trash Palace will build a new recycling operation after receiving $150,000 from the Government.

Environment Minister Amy Adams and Mana-based National List MP Hekia Parata were on hand at Trash Palace last week to officially announce the news.

Adams said she was delighted to have the ability to help support Mana Recovery Trust, which oversees the operation.

‘‘The real story of our environment is not about what the Government does, but about what each community group, small organisation and household does to minimise their footprint on the environment.

‘‘Waste is a big part of it,’’ she said.

Ted Gallen, secretary of Mana Recovery Trust, said $150,000 will give them a big kickstart for the rebuild and relocation from the current site, which is due for demolition. They will rebuild on land next to Trash Palace.

‘‘Without it we wouldn’t be able to get going and I can’t say National’s new funding commitment to Mana Recovery was welcome, but failed to meet the $430,000 funding gap left by Capital & Coast District Health Board, said Mana MP Kris Faafoi.

‘‘ Better co- ordination between the Government and Capital & Coast would have saved Mana Recovery from significant pain following the DHB’s funding cuts earlier this enough about how grateful we are,’’ he said. Gallen said one of the key things in the relocation is that volunteers and workers will have the opportunity for a more social and public workplace.

‘‘What we’re really about is capturing as much of the recycling industry as we can to provide job opportunities for those with a mental health background, and the new location will be even more ben- year,’’ Faafoi said. He said while he was glad National was getting behind Mana Recovery, he was concerned that the $150,000 grant would not be enough for the charity to work to the same standard.

‘‘Mana Recovery has done great work in our community, and government funding needs to reflect that. National’s bandaid funding can’t cover $430,000 in cuts.’’ eficial for that purpose,’’ he said.

Parata said Mana Recovery Trust has a proven track record of ensuring that volunteers are given the opportunity to develop skills and be transformed into employees.

‘‘Cheers to all the employees and volunteers [of the trust], Porirua City Council and Westpac Bank, everyone that is part of this little ecosystem, for the great work that you do out here,’’ she said.