“Let me say that again, the proposed Maori Health Authority will not only have the ability to commission its own work, but also the ability to veto decisions made by the Government on general health — on everyone's health,” she said.
Collins obviously sees this as a possible winning plank for 2023, realising that there is genuine concern in the community about a separate Maori health system.
This appears to be a successor to the crude iwi/Kiwi campaign of former National leader Don Brash whose “Orewa Speech” caused an initial surge in support but failed to earn a win for National in 2005.
Collins' move will win her votes in some quarters but it carries risks.
Some critics see this as a desperate bid by her to try to reinforce her leadership in the face of rumoured challenges.
In any case it has sparked life into the political scene and set the stage for an interesting debate during the coming winter months.