Media Release

3 October 2013

Maori Party welcomes insulation of 235,000 homes

The Maori Party welcomes the announcement that 235,000 homes have been insulated under the Government’s Warm Up New Zealand: Heat Smart programme, well above the original target set.

“Insulating homes has been crucial to addressing poverty in this country and was one of the key agreements in our relationship accord with the National Government,” says Maori Party Co-leader Tariana Turia.

“We fought hard for insulation knowing that warm dry housing helps reduce the risk of rheumatic fever and respiratory illnesses.”

“But there are other factors that cause poverty. In our accord with National we agreed that poverty was a long standing issue impacting on too many New Zealanders. We also agreed on the establishment of a ministerial committee to help alleviate the effects of poverty in this country.”

“Therefore we expect that other factors including overcrowding, unemployment and the rising cost of living will also be addressed. If we are going to maximise the benefits of insulating homes we must also address these other deficits that could keep some families in poverty forever.”

ENDS

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Trial Over 'Anonymous' Donations: John Banks Resigns As Minister

ACT Leader John Banks today confirmed that he has stood down from his Ministerial positions following today’s decision at the Auckland District Court.

“Last week I indicated to the Prime Minister’s Chief of Staff that I would offer my resignation should the matter relating to my 2010 Mayoral Electoral return be committed to trial,” Mr Banks said...

“I intend to continue in my role as ACT Leader and MP for Epsom, and ACT will continue to support National on matters of confidence and supply. More>>