Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
Government ignores its responsibility to lower unemployment
Government ignores its responsibility to lower unemployment.
Statistics New Zealand figures released today show that unemployment remains at 6 percent.
“The government continues to have total blind and uncaring faith in a free market solution to unemployment. The government refuses to act,” says Auckland Action Against Poverty spokesperson, Alastair Russell.
In Auckland, unemployment rose to 7.3 percent up from 6.3 percent.
Next week the Minister of Finance will deliver his Budget. “I confidently predict there will be no meaningful employment creation within the budget. Offering 1000 beneficiaries money to go to Christchurch simply does not cut it,” says Mr. Russell.
“There will be nothing to address the needs of the unemployed or the low paid. We have no ability to buy into the Cabinet Club, we have no Cabinet Minister friends or spouses to intervene on our behalf.”
“Poverty is a reality for hundreds of thousands throughout New Zealand. A government which ignores the plight of so many and only listens to the wealthy has no legitimacy,” says Mr. Russell.
Ends
Gordon Campbell: On Why We Can’t Survive Two More Years Of This
National Wetland Trust: Public Asked To Help Prevent Fires In Wetlands This Summer
Lillian Hanly, RNZ: The Year In Politics - Stories That Dominated The Headlines In 2024
Waikato Regional Council: Studies Open Door To Mercury Islands Underwater World
Office of the Privacy Commissioner: Christmas Is About Giving, But Don’t Give Up Your Privacy
The Rail Advocacy Collective: Chris Trotter - Running Us Off The Rails
Natural Hazards Commission: More Landslide Claims Than Ever; NHC Encourages Homeowners To Get Prepared
