GEORGE HAWKINS
Member of Parliament for Manurewa
Labour Spokesperson on Police, & the Serious Fraud Office
Labour Associate Spokesperson on Internal Affairs, & Customs

Media Statement

Manurewa MP George Hawkins is supporting calls by Auckland's civic leaders for central Government to provide better support for the greater Auckland region.

"The greater Auckland region is New Zealand's economic powerhouse. Unfortunately the current Government has treated our community with contempt. The result has been that problems such as poverty, unemployment and poor housing has become a major feature in parts of the region - particularly here in Manurewa," said George Hawkins.

The National/Act/Mauri Pacific Government has failed the people of the greater Auckland region. Funding levels for essential social services have not kept pace with population growth throughout greater Auckland.

"The Government has dumped on the people of this region through a failure to provide the services and facilities that taxpayers have a right to expect," said George Hawkins.

The civic leaders recognise that poverty, homelessness and inequality has become a major concern in Auckland. These factors contribute to an increase in crime.

"The Government has pursued policies that have not tackled crime or the causes of crime. The Government has budgeted for decreases in police spending over the next five years. As a result, 93 out of every 100 reported burglaries in Auckland go unsolved. Then the Government cuts the number of police staff," said George Hawkins.

End

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