Greens welcome Budget Policy Goals
08 March 2000
Green Party Co-Leader Rod Donald today welcomed the goals set out by the Government in the Budget Policy Statement.
However he was concerned that fundamental economic problems had not been addressed.
"While I strongly support celebrating our identity in the arts and sport, I am saddened by the loss in self-esteem as we
become increasingly dependent on imports to meet basic needs," said Mr Donlad.
Mr Donald said the projected unemployment level of 5.8 per cent was too high.
"It is no coincidence that despite the growth in exports, the Budget Policy Statement is still projecting a real trade
deficit, when transport costs are taken into consideration," said Mr Donald.
Mr Donald said the Government was not prepared to tackle the growth in imports which was causing job losses for low
income workers.
"The Government also talks of a maintaining a clean, green environment, but unless the economy is put on an
environmentally sustainable footing, we won't achieve that goal," said Mr Donald.
Mr Donald said the Green Party was looking forward to discussing specific intiatives that would help the Government meet
their goals.
Rod Donald MP: (04) 470 6660 or 025 507 183 Gina Dempster, Press Secretary: (04) 470 6723 or 021 1265 289