Plight of Low-Income Families Being Misrepresented

New Zealand First Spokesperson for Social Policy Asenati Lole-Taylor is concerned that recent reports about spending are masking the grim reality of life on low incomes.

“The Government is relying on spending as an indicator of economic growth when it should be addressing the need for more productive industry in New Zealand.

“We are a country that needs a high level of exports not a high level of consumption.

“Reports from the major banks that there is economic growth because spending is up provide little comfort for families struggling to make ends meet.

“New Zealand First is interested in real results.

“What will make a difference is good jobs and fair wages.

“The Government needs to ensure that the difficult financial situation of low-income New Zealanders is being portrayed fairly, and not being glossed over – especially when a large amount of increased retail spending can be linked to the Christchurch earthquake rebuild.

“Employment is essential to the wellbeing of all New Zealanders. Instead the Government is allowing low-paid casualised work which is less secure than being on a benefit,” says Mrs Lole-Taylor

ENDS

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