The Foreign Minister's defending recalling Trevor Mallard as Ambassador to Ireland now, and not 18 months ago. 

The previous Government appointed the former Parliament Speaker to the role in 2023.

Winston Peters yesterday replaced him, saying Mallard will return home two months early. 

He says Mallard should have resigned.

Peters further explained he didn't bring him home earlier to avoid being accused of being vindictive. 

LISTEN ABOVE

The Foreign Minister's defending recalling Trevor Mallard as Ambassador to Ireland now, and not 18 months ago.&nbsp;
The previous Government appointed the former Parliament Speaker to the role in 2023.
Winston Peters yesterday replaced him, saying Mallard will return home two months early.&nbsp;
He says Mallard should have resigned.
Peters further explained he didn't bring him home earlier to avoid being accused of being vindictive.&nbsp;
LISTEN ABOVE

With a straight down the middle approach, Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive on Newstalk ZB delivers the very latest news and views to New Zealanders as they wrap up their day.

Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive

Winston Peters: Foreign Minister reveals why he didn't recall Trevor Mallard sooner

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/a9d86689-62b8-4581-b462-b33f00690ca0/transcript