Making sure New Zealanders have the skills and opportunities they need to get work and stay employable is the goal of Labour's employment policy, says employment spokesperson Steve Maharey.

"Labour in Government is firstly about creating jobs, with a sensible and constructive approach to managing the economy," Mr Maharey says.

"Within that economic framework we have a comprehensive programme to maximise work opportunities for all New Zealanders. Its seven planks are:
· case management for job seekers;
· investment in training and education;
· more help for people starting their own small business;
· improved access to childcare for working parents;
· better incentives for unemployed people to work;
· training and work experience for the long-term unemployed;
· using the unemployment benefit to fund new job opportunities.

"Labour will use the unemployment benefit to fund job opportunities in public and community services, rather than forcing beneficiaries into make-work schemes as National has done. Under the Community Employment Organisations programme small businesses will be set up to employ people in real, useful jobs providing services for individuals or community organisations such as schools, local government, sports bodies and social service agencies.

"Labour will also look ahead by establishing an independent Future Work Unit to advise the Government and business on how work practices could adapt better to people's needs. It will investigate matters like family-friendly workplaces, shorter working hours and weeks, sabbaticals and job sharing.

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