Government and diplomatic positions must be considered on the basis of merit, rather than on a “jobs for mates” culture. We are calling on our followers to immediately act to oppose Trevor Mallard being appointed as New Zealand’s Ambassador to Ireland.

Trevor Mallard has brought the position of House Speaker into disrepute, from him assaulting another MP, his false rape claim, and mishandling of the Parliament protest, alongside his style in presiding the Debate Chamber. One must question what merits of him that Jacinda Ardern considered in appointing him to the role.

Furthermore, not long ago, it was reported by multiple news outlets that Trevor Mallard has been lobbying PM Jacinda Ardern to give him the Irish diplomatic post upon his retirement as Speaker of the House of Representatives because he has family members living there.

Serious questions must be raised as to how and on what basis he got the job and whether the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and DPMC have gone through a proper selection process to find the most suitable candidate for the role.

There is now a sense among New Zealanders that this appointment has been a political and nepotistic one given Trevor Mallard’s alleged personal lobbying.

Lobby New Zealand stands for good governance. We stand for a merits-based democracy. Until the Prime Minister solemnly confirms that she was never influenced by Trevor Mallard, we continue to oppose his appointment.