Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga
MP for Maungakiekie

17 May 2013

Media Statement

New bill improves provision of Social Housing

Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga, MP for Maungakiekie, has welcomed the first reading of the Social Housing (Housing Restructuring & Tenancy Matters) Amendment Bill.

This bill extends income related rents to community housing providers, transfers the needs assessment process to the Ministry of Social Development and provides for reviewable tenancies for all Housing New Zealand tenants.

“Budget 2013 makes bold changes to the way we deliver housing assistance to those most in need. We are ensuring that housing is the right size, in the right place, in the right condition and is available for those that need it most, for the duration of that need.” Mr Lotu-Iiga says.

“Our Government is about growing the involvement of those organisations that are best placed to help our most vulnerable families. These include iwi groups, faith based organisations and charities. These organisations are sometimes better placed to help, as they often integrate housing with support for people with disabilities, mental health issues, drug and alcohol problems and family dysfunction.”

“Renewable tenancies are also important as they will allow us to support people into alternative housing when their situations improve and they are able to become independent.” Mr Lotu-Iiga says.

“In my electorate of Maungakiekie I have seen many examples where single people are living in 3 bedroom homes. Reviewable tenancies allow these people to move to more suitable accommodation and make way for a family with children whose needs better match those homes.”

“Our Government is investing a record amount of $2.9 billion into Housing New Zealand over the next 3 years and tackling the hard issues that matter to New Zealanders” Mr Lotu-Iiga says.

“The changes announced in Budget 2013 will increase the pool of resources available to our service providers and get much needed support to those most in need in our communities.”

“I welcome the bill being referred to the Social Services Select Committee. As Chairman of that committee, I look forward to hearing from submitters and taking part in the debate as the bill progresses through Parliament.” Mr Lotu-Iiga says.

--ENDS—

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