Jobs party pleased with increased employment, but more work to be done on Maori and youth unemployment

Regional and economic development work is paying off as more and more new jobs are being created around the country, but Maori (9.7%), Pacific peoples (6.6%) and youth (6%) unemployment levels still need to come down, says Progressive leader, Jim Anderton.

"In the September quarter, 26,000 more jobs were created and in October job advertisements increased by 2 per cent according to the latest ANZ Job Ads release. There is no doubt in my mind that the Labour Progressive coalition government has contributed to this achievement through working in partnership with communities to make the most of their employment opportunities.

"Under this coalition government, regions are encouraged and supported by the government to develop their full potential and make the most of their opportunities. Innovation and creativity are nurtured through our regional and industry development work. This is the sort of policy, which will be thrown out by 'hands off' politicians like Don Brash and his National-ACT-United coalition of the right.

"Progressives support more work being focused on reducing Maori unemployment in particular, which is still a great concern at 9.7%. Maori have a wealth of skill and talent in a wide range of enterprises. They have almost halved their unemployment rate since 1999 (then 17.9%), but there is much work to be done in order to maximize their potential. The same goes for our Pacific peoples and young New Zealanders.

"I encourage Maori, Pacific and Youth organizations to bring their ideas for developing further employment opportunities to my attention," said Jim Anderton.

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