David Shearer: New Era - New Solutions
27 January 2013
MEDIA
STATEMENT
David Shearer: New Era -
New Solutions
Labour Leader David Shearer
has today set out the need for a new approach so that New
Zealand has a smart hands-on government that backs
hard-working Kiwis doing their bit.
“New
Zealanders are looking for a Government that will roll up
its sleeves and back them. Kiwis are doing their bit, it’s
time they had a Government that did its bit too.
“The global economic landscape has changed as a
result of the financial crisis. It’s not just a blip.
National hasn’t woken up to that fact. Its hands off,
leave it to the market approach, has failed. Too many people
are being left behind.
“Labour has the fresh
thinking and new ideas needed to make a real difference to
people’s lives. We recognise we are in a new era. We have
the solutions and the courage to act. Labour will be a
player not a spectator in government, said David
Shearer.
In his speech at Wainuiomata today, David
Shearer set out Labour’s priorities for 2013.
“Jobs are our number one priority. We have
concrete ideas that will help, including creating thousands
of jobs and training opportunities through our plan to put
100,000 families into affordable first homes,” he
said.
The Labour Leader also signalled key areas of
new policy development that will be unveiled in 2013.
“Our economic team will develop a clear plan to
diversify our economy. It’s about backing the talent of
businesses working in high tech and the innovations of those
adding value to our natural resources. A thriving
manufacturing sector is at the heart of our
vision.
“On education, we’ll work to improve
the transition from school to further training and
high-skill jobs. Too many young Kiwis are dropping out or
just drifting. We want every child to go through school with
a purpose and a plan of where they’ll end up.
“Our Social Development spokesperson will also
produce an alternative white paper, setting out how we will
help lift children out of poverty and give them the best
start in life.
“And we’ll be talking to
Cantabrians about how they see their future. It’s about
rebuilding Canterbury from the grassroots up, not the
Beehive down. Their voices must be heard.
“This
is a big year for Labour – where we hold the Government to
account and show New Zealanders that Labour is ready to
govern,” said David
Shearer.
ENDS