Press Release and Media Advisory

Victory for Sam Kuha and the Poor

MANA Leader and MP for Te Tai Tokerau Hone Harawira

Thursday 11th October

“Sam Kuha deserves a medal” says MANA Leader and MP for Te Tai Tokerau Hone Harawira.

“Paula Bennett’s office confirmed today that she will meet with Sam Kuha and listen to his concerns provided he comes off his hunger strike”.

“Tomorrow (Friday 12th October) marks the 30th day for Sam without food. I will be meeting with Sam and his supporters at Malahi Café at Kaikohe at 10 am for a bowl of soup as he comes off his hunger strike”.

“Sam’s frustration with WINZ began after he was told that after being granted three food grants he must see a budgeter, despite the waiting list being as long as two weeks. Sam’s response to the Minister was to tell her that food should be given where it is needed and to scrap the policy”.

“Unfortunately Sam’s failure to receive a food grant is common in poor communities. Over the past four years the number of hardship grants for food has nearly doubled. Sam deserves a pat on the back for raising awareness about the issue”.

“I hope the Minister listens to what Sam has to say and scraps a policy that sees people having to beg for food. She should also do more for beneficiaries who are struggling to make ends meet rather than introduce punitive measures that treat all beneficiaries like lazy, dope-smoking bludgers”.

“Good on you Sam. Not many people I know would starve themselves for a month on behalf of the poor. Here’s hoping the Minister hears what you have to say and actually provides a hand-up for beneficiaries”.

ENDS

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