Simon Bridges National MP simonbridges.co.nz

It's been a busy couple of weeks in the Bridges' household with the arrival of wee Harry. Although I'm not sure exactly how helpful he is, but Emlyn is always keen to get involved and take care of his new brother.

Heart Stopper Challenge

Last Saturday I took part in @Heart's 2014 Heart Stopper Challenge as part of ‘Team Baby Daddies' with More FM's Brendon Weatherley to raise money and awareness for the 12 babies born every week with heart defects.

@Heart provides children and their families with the support and services to these children and their families. I want to congratulate BOP @Heart chairperson Rachael Parkes for all the hard work she puts into the organisation and this event.

I've done the challenge in previous years, but you always forget just how cold the water actually is.

The inspiration comes from the ‘icy slush' procedure used until the mid-1980s, where the child's body was immersed in a slush, slowing the requirement for oxygen and therefore offering surgeons a window of opportunity to carry out simple cardiac procedures.

Thank you to all of you who have donated. More than $25,000 has been raised so far and you can still donate at http://www.heartstopper.org.nz/event/ heartstopperbayofplenty2014

Race Relations Day

March 21 was celebrated around the world as Race Relations Day. New Zealand is one of the most ethnically diverse countries in the OECD with more than 200 ethnicities and more than100 languages.

I think most people would agree New Zealand has an enviable record when it comes to race relations. Many of New Zealand's efforts to combat racial discrimination are being recognised as best practice globally and are being recommended to other countries.

The Government is committed to making sure all New Zealanders are able to participate and contribute to our cultural, social and economic life here in New Zealand.

As Minister of Labour, one of my priorities is ensuring migrant workers are aware of their rights under employment law and are protecting from exploitation. I've been working with Immigration Minister Michael Woodhouse to ensure a whole-of-government response to this issue.