23 June 2000 Media Statement
Budget driven by a new paradigm – Maharey
The Coalition Government's first budget is driven by a new paradigm offering opportunities for New Zealanders to escape
disadvantage and succeed in today's society, Social Services and Employment Minister Steve Maharey said today.
Mr Maharey addressed social workers in Auckland this afternoon and said that the Budget was driven by investment in New
Zealand's future. The Government wanted to be defined by a commitment to increasing opportunity, security and
participation.
"Security, opportunity and participation used to be things we took for granted in this country; no special investment
required. New Zealand used to be one of the best places on earth to be a child. We were a prosperous nation, where
unemployment was virtually unknown.
"Sadly the same cannot be said today. The gap between the haves and have-nots in this nation have grown and become
entrenched.
"The real drive in our first budget - the bold strategy for the new millennium - wasn't about simply building better
ambulances at the bottom of the cliff, but to fence the cliff off and limit the flow of casualties.
"We have taken a life cycle approach to one on the greatest social problems facing this nation. We must offer more than
a sticking plaster solution; we must instead offer people an opportunity to achieve their full potential and determine
their own destiny.
"These are the tools that this Government will use to build stronger families, more cohesive communities, and provide
the right environment for our children to thrive," Steve Maharey said.
ENDS