Denis O’Rourke MP

Spokesperson for Housing

20 November 2013  

Social Housing Moves Will Cause Social Damage

New Zealand First says the Government’s new housing legislation attacks vulnerable people rather than building more social housing to meet the needs of New Zealanders.

The Social Housing Reform (Housing Restructuring and Tenancy Matters Amendment) Bill passed its third reading this morning.

Housing spokesperson Denis O’Rourke says the Government’s approach to the housing crisis in New Zealand is wrong.

“The Government is seeking to suppress demand rather than to provide more rental housing, by moving people out of state houses if Housing NZ assesses that they are financially able to do so.

“Despite the Government’s claims that it would have a lenient approach, people will inevitably be nudged – effectively bullied - out of their homes.

“There are good reasons for people, especially the elderly and families with children in local schools to choose to remain in state house rentals, even if they are assessed as able to move elsewhere, when it is often not the best option for them.

“The constant threat of regular reviews will inevitably lead to significant social problems in health, education, and security.

“The most glaring omission is that the Bill does not provide for local councils to be community housing providers, despite the Christchurch City Council being the second largest provider after Housing NZ, and other councils such as Wellington and Auckland, having long well-proven records of excellence in social housing provision.

“New Zealand First’s policy is to fund councils with long term low interest loans, so that they can provide elderly persons and public rental housing, and provide the many support services needed by a genuine housing service provider,” says Mr O’Rourke.

ENDS

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