Govt’s infrastructure package timely and positive

Media Release – for immediate release

11 February 2009

Government’s infrastructure package “timely and positive”

The New Zealand Contractors’ Federation has congratulated the Government on its “timely and positive package” of infrastructure initiatives to stimulate the economy.

Chief Executive Richard Michael welcomed the announcement of an immediate boost of $142.5 million as part of the Jobs and Growth plan.

The funding will go towards accelerating state highway projects and boosting road maintenance work with five major projects in Hawkes Bay, Waikato and Wellington chosen for advancement.

Transport Minister Steven Joyce said these had been selected for their readiness to commence and their potential to provide an immediate boost to regional economies.

Mr Michael said the package was positive and well thought out both for the civil construction sector and the New Zealand economy as a whole.

“The money is going into the areas where they will get good bang for their buck both in terms of economic return and retaining skilled workers,” he said.

“The fact that the projects are ready to start immediately is very positive and will further add to the benefits.

“This is a good first step for the Government and for Steven Joyce. New Zealand’s construction industry has the capacity to start this work immediately and to take on further projects and we look forward to working constructively with them on the future development of New Zealand’s infrastructure.”

ENDS

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