Media Release
03 March 2004

Limited Employment Locations

New Zealand First is questioning the Government’s naming of 259 localities deemed limited employment opportunities therefore people wanting to move to these areas will not be eligible for the unemployment benefit.

“The social dynamics of the country are set for a huge change when this plan comes into effect,” said social services spokesperson Bill Gudgeon.

“I wonder if the Government has thought about the social impact this will have on the country, particularly on small communities?

“With a health system that is struggling, inadequate housing for many New Zealanders and the intended closure of schools throughout the country and now this, it is no wonder that our economy is struggling.

“When is this Labour led Government going to realise that along with strong economic development programmes, social issues such as education, housing, health and employment go hand in hand.

“I am concerned that the zones considered no go areas for unemployed people those seeking residency will become nests of inactivity and also create areas where there is a huge discrepancy between the employed and unemployed.

“The Government must rethink this policy,” said Mr Gudgeon.

ENDS

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