Confused Katherine strikes again
National’s confused social services spokesperson Katherine Rich has struck again with claims this afternoon that Inland
Revenue (IRD) radio advertisments are encouraging more people onto welfare.
In fact the radio advertisements are part of a month-old campaign by IRD to ensure working families are receiving their
correct Family Assistance entitlement.
Social Services and Employment Minister Steve Maharey says the gaffe will be particularly embarrasing for National
because Famiy Assistance was introduced by the last National government.
“These are silly claims which could easily have been checked. Family Assistance is only available to working families.
“The government makes no apology for advising New Zealanders about the assistance they can get from IRD if they are
raising children. I suspect National also still supports Family Assistance, but Katherine Rich failed to check her facts
before rushing into print,” Steve Maharey said.