Job losses expected as John Key’s Tourism Ministry faces cuts

Tourism is clearly no longer a priority for this government with cuts to staff and significant structural changes to the Ministry just around the corner, Labour’ spokesperson for Tourism Kelvin Davis said today.

“The report by consultants Martin Jenkins made recommendations around future changes to the Ministry for Tourism,” Kelvin Davis said.

“The Tourism Ministry appears set to be folded into the Ministry of Economic Development (MED), despite the Tourism Industry Association (TIA) stating their preference for the Ministry to remain intact.

“The former chief executive of the TIA, Fiona Luhrs, has said the report did not demonstrate an understanding of the needs of the industry or how competitive tourism was.

“At a time where the international trend is for dedicated Ministries with specialist staff being established, New Zealand seems to be going in the opposite direction.

“Both domestic and international tourism contribute billions of dollars a year to our economy. But instead of promoting and assisting the Tourism Ministry to grow, the government is looking at trimming it back which will result in a loss of influence over government decision making.

“John Key has confirmed that an announcement will be made in a couple of days. Until then the Tourism Ministry’s future and job security of its staff is uncertain.

“I hope the Prime Minister realises that this industry needs more investment, leadership and support, not less as the report recommends.

“Cost cutting in this area will mean New Zealand Tourism will suffer,” said Kelvin Davis.

ENDS

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